On Yom Kippur, Jerusalem presents a sight found nowhere else in the world. The streets fall silent, traffic disappears, and the Western Wall becomes the focal point for tens of thousands of worshippers. In 2025, police forces are deploying across the city with reinforced checkpoints and road closures, in one of the largest operations of the High Holidays.
Police checkpoints in Jerusalem
Under the command of District Chief Amir Arzani, police and Border Guard officers are manning key junctions including Haim Bar-Lev Boulevard and Hebron Road. Private vehicles are not permitted to enter the Old City or the Western Wall plaza. The public is urged to plan ahead and avoid attempting access by car.
Park and Ride facilities
Ahead of the fast, visitors may use “Park and Ride” lots at Mount Scopus, Mount Herzl and Safra Square. From these points, many choose to walk into the city center and toward the Old City, a ritual that has become part of the unique rhythm of Yom Kippur in Jerusalem.
Access to hospitals
Emergency access remains guaranteed: Hadassah Ein Kerem via Route 1 and Ora Junction; Shaare Zedek through Givat Mordechai and Shmuel Beyt; and Hadassah Mount Scopus through University Boulevard and Benjamin Mazar. The clear mapping of routes is meant to ensure rapid medical response even during the fast.
( Yom Kippur in Jerusalem – unique ancient questions)
Closure of Jerusalem’s outer checkpoints
From the start of Yom Kippur until its conclusion, Rachel Crossing, Bitunia and the “Ring” crossing will remain closed. Hizma Crossing will stay open for humanitarian purposes only. These steps highlight the delicate balance of ensuring security while maintaining the sanctity of the holy day.
A global image of Yom Kippur in Jerusalem
Few cities in the world can transform the way Jerusalem does on Yom Kippur: roads emptied of cars, children riding bicycles, and worshippers crowding the Western Wall. In 2025, the image is once again striking – a city that simultaneously pauses, prays, and demonstrates a rare blend of spirituality, security and civic logistics.
