Last year, following the outbreak of the coronavirus, heavy restrictions were imposed on aliyah to the Rashbi's celebration on Mount Meron - and thousands were forced to celebrate the Rashbi's celebration at home and were not allowed to ascend to his holy mount.
This year, following the eradication of the virus following the successful vaccination campaign, most restrictions on the ascent to Zion have been lifted, and thousands will be able to visit Mount Meron and participate in the lighting of the traditional bonfires.
However, in a letter sent last night by the heads of the HaKnesset HaGorimah Rashbi Meron and Tzedekat Rashbi organizations to the Minister of the Interior, they claimed that distributing food and drink to worshippers who ascend the Mount would be prohibited.
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
The letter, copies of which were also sent to Housing Minister Yaakov Litzman, Yossi Schweinger, director of the Holy Places, and Israel Deri, director of the Holy Places in the North, stated: "We were surprised to hear from senior police officers in the field that they would not allow the distribution of food and drink in Meron on Lag BaOmer 5771. On Lag BaOmer, hundreds of thousands of people come to Meron. Every person who comes to Hilula leaves their home for an average of 12 consecutive hours on the roads and in the mountains. Preventing the distribution of water and light food to immigrants from Meron is a real danger to lives.".
In the letter, they noted that "all restaurants in the country are operating fully, without any restrictions. There is no reason for the Lag BaOmer festivities to be excluded.".
According to them, "We understand the concerns and have practical solutions for any concerns that arise. For example, we can set up open tents where they can sit and eat.".
Haredim 10 contacted the police and the Ministry of Health - with the question: Was an order issued prohibiting the distribution of food and drink on Lag BaOmer on Mount Meron?
Police response: "The police enforce the law. The one who deals with regulations and enacting laws is the political echelon, in this case the Ministry of Health.".
The Ministry of Health told Haredim 10: "We are not aware of such a directive. The outline is currently under discussion.".
The spokesperson for the Guest Revenue Organization has not provided a response at this time. When received, it will be published.
