An ancient five-ton stone from the Kosel, dating back to the Churban of the Second Beis Hamikdash, has been returned to its rightful place after being displayed for years at the IDF Kirya headquarters in Tel Aviv.

The historic move came after the Kosel Rov, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, requested that Defense Minister Yisrael Katz return the stone to its proper place. Katz agreed, allowing the stone to be preserved with the appropriate kavod alongside the other stones from the Kosel.

The return follows a broader call issued by the Rabbonim Rashiyim and the Kosel Rov to gather all ancient Kosel stones currently displayed in various locations, including the President’s Residence and the Israel Museum, and bring them to a dedicated burial site at their original location. The Chief Rabbinate ruled that the stones carry special kedusha and issued guidelines to fence the burial site to prevent any mundane use.

Israel Antiquities Authority Director General Eli Escusido said the Authority is working together with the Ministry of Heritage to return all remaining stones in accordance with the ruling of the Chief Rabbinate.

Speaking at the ceremony, Rabbi Rabinowitz highlighted the deep significance of returning the stone to its original location.

“The stones of the Kosel are not only stones; they carry the neshama of the Jewish people, the pain of golus, and the joy of return,” he said. “Even when there were attempts to bring this kedusha into the centers of national decision-making, their natural place is here. The return of the stone is a reconnection to the deep foundations that sustain the entire nation.”

Defense Minister Katz said the decision to return the stone was clear.

“The stones of the Kosel belong to the Kosel,” Katz said. “Each stone carries the story of the Jewish people, from tefillos and hope, through Churban, to strength. The return of the stone reflects our commitment to Yerushalayim and the clear promise that the Beis Hamikdash will never be destroyed again.”

MK Rabbi Meir Porush also addressed the gathering, noting that the historic stones have survived every upheaval in Eretz Yisroel.

“We stand here in historic days in which we merit to see Hashem’s yeshuos,” Porush said. He thanked the Kosel Rov and the Defense Minister for facilitating the return of the stone to the holy site where millions of Yidden gather to daven.

Photos: The Western Wall Heritage Foundation