According to Har Habayis organizations, over 12,000 people visited the holy site in the first half of 5778, representing an almost 50% increase as compared to the first half of 5777.

Yeraeh (Volunteers Encouraging Ascent to the Temple Mount) is publishing its report now, ahead of the 70th anniversary of the State of Israel, ahead of Ramadan and as the US prepares to relocate its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Expectations are that security tensions will increase as these dates draw nearer.

Yeraeh works to encourage visits to Har Habayis in line with halacha, including one’s familiarizing oneself with the halachos, going to mikve and dressing accordingly.

A record was set this past Tisha B’Av, when over 1,264 people visited as was the record for the month of Av, reaching 4,369 visits.

YWN NOTES: Gedolei Yisrael over the generations and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel prohibit visiting Har Habayis, which they explain carries the punishment of karess.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)