Due to the ongoing war, the traditional Birkas Kohanim at the Kosel was held this year in a dramatically scaled-down format, with the general public barred from attending.

Amid the “Lion’s Roar” war and recent security incidents in the Old City, including falling missile fragments, authorities restricted all access to the Kosel throughout Pesach. Instead of the usual tens of thousands who gather each year, the ceremony is being conducted with a limited group of just 50 kohanim in a smaller, secured setting within the tunnels.

Despite the restrictions, the blessing was extended to Jews around the world through a live broadcast. Special prayers are also being recited for the safety of IDF soldiers, security forces, and the entire Jewish people.

At the same time, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, rabbi of the Kosel and the holy sites, appealed to security authorities to reconsider the strict limitations. In a letter to Home Front Command leadership, he respectfully urged that the guidelines be reevaluated to allow mispalelim access, especially at a time when many feel a deep need to pray at the holy site.

While acknowledging the importance of protecting lives, he questioned why large public gatherings were permitted elsewhere while prayer at the Kosel remained restricted, calling it “the beating heart of the Jewish people,” particularly during wartime.

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