The month of Ramadan, set to begin this weekend and last until early April, is expected to bring an influx of worshippers and visitors to the Old City, the Temple Mount, and sacred sites in Jerusalem. The Jerusalem District Police have completed their preparations for the period, aiming to balance freedom of worship with the maintenance of security and public order.
Police preparations for Ramadan | Photo: Police Spokesperson:
Significant Force Reinforcement and Traffic Changes
During Ramadan, hundreds of police officers, Border Police fighters, and reinforcing forces will operate throughout the city, focusing on sensitive areas: the Old City, the Temple Mount, the surrounding Jerusalem area, and the main routes leading to worship sites.
On Fridays, thousands of worshippers are expected to arrive for midday prayers at the Temple Mount, thus significantly increasing the presence of police and operational forces. The Israel Police will set up barriers and enhance crowd management to maintain public order and prevent friction.
Due to the anticipated crowds, traffic arrangements in the Old City and the routes leading to it will also be adjusted. The public is urged to check police announcements regarding the new arrangements and to prepare accordingly.
Dedicated Command Center for Monitoring Provocation on Social Media
The police are taking attempts to incite provocations during the month seriously, especially on social media. A special command center will be established in Jerusalem, consisting of intelligence, investigations, and representatives from security bodies whose role is to monitor and swiftly halt attempts to spread false rumors and incite terrorism.
Past experience shows that during Ramadan, inciting and false content related to sacred sites is often circulated to provoke tension and violence. The police state that hostile elements are once again attempting to exploit the festive atmosphere for political purposes and to undermine security.
Actions Against Inciters and Rioters
In recent weeks, the police have carried out focused enforcement operations against dozens of inciters and rioters in East Jerusalem, who were arrested for calls to terrorism, spreading inciting content, and participating in violent disturbances.
Some investigations regarding these incidents are still ongoing, and the police emphasize that any attempt to exploit Ramadan for disturbances will face determined enforcement.
Public Call: Remain Vigilant and Avoid Being Drawn into Incitement
The Israel Police call on the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual incidents or suspected hostile activities to emergency hotline 100.
