Story perspectives

Netanyahu Cancels Pilgrimage, Caps Lag B’Omer, Bans Bonfires

4/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled the Lag B’Omer mass pilgrimage and will hold a symbolic ceremony.
The Fire and Rescue Service banned bonfires outside approved sites until June 30 due to wildfire risk.
Israeli authorities limited Lag B’Omer attendance at Mount Meron to 1,500 participants.
The Home Front Command imposed a 1,500-person limit in northern border communities from 22:30 Sunday to 20:00 Monday, prompting Moshe Davidovich to announce a strike over insufficient protection.

History

Historical Context

The annual Lag BaOmer pilgrimage to Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai’s tomb on Mount Meron draws hundreds of thousands; a 2021 crush that killed 45 people while 100,000 worshippers ignored a 10,000-person COVID limit spurred the Israel Police, Home Front Command and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to impose a 1,500-person cap and ban bonfires. Earlier, a 1911 roof collapse also highlighted safety concerns.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled the Lag B’Omer mass pilgrimage and will hold a symbolic ceremony.
The Fire and Rescue Service banned bonfires outside approved sites until June 30 due to wildfire risk.
Israeli authorities limited Lag B’Omer attendance at Mount Meron to 1,500 participants.
The Home Front Command imposed a 1,500-person limit in northern border communities from 22:30 Sunday to 20:00 Monday, prompting Moshe Davidovich to announce a strike over insufficient protection.

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