Hundreds of thousands, and possibly up to a million participants as organizers predict, are expected to attend today, Thursday, the \u201cMillion Rally\u201d at the entrance to Jerusalem. The rally is organized by ultra-Orthodox groups amid the ongoing national debate over Israel\u2019s military draft law and their demand to secure full exemptions from service and prevent the arrest of draft evaders.<\/p>\n
The rally is set to begin around 2:30 p.m. and continue into the afternoon, with major traffic congestion already forming earlier in the day. Thousands of police officers, Border Police, and volunteers have been deployed across the city and its main traffic routes to maintain public order and direct vehicles.<\/p>\n
Police officials emphasize that the operation aims to protect both the right to free expression and the safety of residents and participants. Significant congestion has already been reported near the Chords Bridge, Givat Shaul, and the main entrance to Jerusalem.<\/p>\n
Starting from early afternoon, Route 1 has been closed to private vehicles in both directions – from Latrun Interchange to Givat Shaul. Entry into Jerusalem is permitted only for pre-organized buses directed by police to designated drop-off points.
Residents of nearby communities, including Mevasseret Zion, Neve Ilan, and Abu Ghosh, are allowed through police checkpoints only by presenting ID or employee cards.<\/p>\n
At the same time, Route 443 remains open and serves as the main alternative route. Police urge drivers to use navigation apps and stay updated on real-time changes.<\/p>\n
Within the city, several major streets have been closed, including Givat Shaul Street, Jaffa Street (between HaTurim and Yirmiyahu), Shazar and Herzl Boulevards, as well as junctions around Givat Shaul Interchange and Malkei Israel. Additional nearby roads will close temporarily as the rally progresses.<\/p>\n
Heavy traffic is reported near the Chords Bridge, Rabin Junction, and other access roads leading to central Jerusalem. Traffic police are directing vehicles to alternative routes, warning of long delays.<\/p>\n
Police call on participants not to arrive in private vehicles but only by organized buses. Any attempt to block roads illegally will be treated as a criminal offense.
During the rally, lighting fires, acts of vandalism, or flying drones without authorization are strictly forbidden and will be dealt with firmly.<\/p>\n
Jerusalem District Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Ronen Ovadia, notes that police are preparing for a particularly challenging day:
\u201cWe are here to safeguard freedom of expression as well as public safety. We will act decisively against any threat to order or human life.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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