As part of the ban on all traditional bonfires for the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer, Israel Police announced that any person found violating the ban will be fined NIS 500.
The ban on the traditional Jewish festivities during the holiday which traditionally saw a quarter of a million people participating at bonfire lighting at the grave of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, is part of the continued effort to curb the spread of coronavirus.
“As part of our continued efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus in Israel and with updated emergency regulations, this year, restrictions will be put in place during the Lag Ba’Omer holiday to prevent mass gatherings which could pose a public health risk and hinder continued measures taken to ensure public health,” a police spokesman said.
Only three rabbis representing the Haredi, Sephardi and the National-Religious communities will be allowed at the gravesite for the traditional bonfire celebration. Mount Meron and the surrounding area will be closed off to the public.
Police units will patrol the area by car and from the air and stop any cars and buses heading to the site, forces will also prevent bonfires throughout the country to ensure there are no violations of the bonfire ban or prevent any mass gatherings during the holiday.
