Sound The Trumpet : U.S.: 'don't Go to Jerusalem's Old City During Sukkot!'

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“U.S.: 'don't Go to Jerusalem's Old City During Sukkot!'”
by Arutz Sheva
October 5th, 2009

US Warning on Sukkot in Old City

American officials have warned U.S. citizens not to enter Jerusalem's Old City during the week-long holiday of Sukkot, when celebrations are at their height and numerous activities for families and children are offered almost around the clock.

The warning by the U.S. State Department, issued on Friday, names Monday in particular as a day to avoid the spiritual heart of Israel's capital city -- the day when the Kohanim, or Jewish priestly class -- bless the People of Israel at the Kotel (Western Wall).

Thousands of Kohanim, Jewish men descended from members of the priestly class in the House of Israel, gather three times each year to perform the Birkat HaKohanim blessing on each festival day during which Jewish pilgrims are enjoined to "go up" to Jerusalem.

"The final two of the local autumn holidays, Sukkot and Simhat Torah, will be celebrated this weekend and next. American citizens should avoid the Old City for one week. Vehicle traffic in and around the Old City will be restricted by the Israeli National Police (INP)," reads the Warden Message from the U.S. State Department, dated October 2.

"Monday, October 5, is expected to draw the largest crowds due to the annual pilgrimage by Jewish worshipers who will assemble at the Western Wall for special prayers. Additionally, political and religious tensions are expected to be high in the areas immediately adjacent to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound throughout this period. A large police presence in the area may provoke spontaneous violence in the form of civil unrest and police actions," the warning continues.

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