As a result of a stop work order issued by the Israel Antiquities Authority, restoration work in Har HaZeisim has been halted, the daily HaMevaser reports. This major project is aimed at restoring the Beis HaChaim to its former glory, that time preceding the Jordanian occupation, during which then King Hussein vandalized and desecrated the holy site.

The order was given to the Eida HaSephardim Chevra Kadisha carrying out the main portion of the work, along with a copy for Asra Kadisha, ordering the immediate cessation of work in Section 12, Area 29992. The order refers to all work, including digging, building, removal of debris and stone work.

Work was taking place in the Khal Chassidim area, which includes kevarim of Rav Shalom Sharabi (Bal Pri Chodosh), as well as work that was taking place in Nachal Kidron.

Gedolei Yisrael Shlita have stated restoration work may only be carried out by agencies which adhere to Halacha, namely a chevra kadisha. The chevra kadisha has made significant progress in the Khal Chassidim area during recent years.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)