Israel largely shut down at sundown on Sunday for Yom Kippur, the Jewish calendar’s most important day, with flights and public transport suspended, according to reports from Jerusalem published on September 20. Essential travel ground to a halt as authorities and citizens observed the Day of Atonement, a traditional period marked by fasting, repentance, and intensive synagogue services that runs from dusk on Sunday until nightfall on Monday.
Ben Gurion Airport and Public Transport Suspended
Operations at Ben Gurion Airport outside Tel Aviv halted at 1:00 p.m. local time, according to a statement from the Airports Authority. Departures and arrivals at the main international facility are scheduled to resume early on Tuesday. Across the country, trains, buses, and light rail services stopped running completely. Public transit services are due to resume gradually after the holiday concludes on Monday night.
Empty Streets and Road Closures in Tel Aviv
A photographer observed large trucks blocking a major road in Tel Aviv to prevent vehicles from passing. In central Tel Aviv, streets surrounding Habima Square emptied of their usual buses, cafe crowds, and restaurant traffic. Families, cyclists, and pedestrians took over the open roads instead.
Most businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues closed across Israel. Legal restrictions govern employment and business openings during Yom Kippur, enforcing the nationwide pause in commercial activity.
Did You Know? Yom Kippur, also known as the “Day of Atonement,” is considered the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, traditionally observed with a fast and intense prayer services that last through most of the day.
West Bank Closures Implemented
In addition to internal restrictions, Israel imposed a general closure on the occupied West Bank for the holiday. The measure restricts Palestinian movement into Israel and temporarily closes all border crossings between the territory and Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Yom Kippur begin and end?
According to reports, the day begins on Sunday at dusk and ends on Monday at nightfall.
When will flights resume at Ben Gurion Airport?
The Airports Authority stated that departures and arrivals at Ben Gurion Airport will resume early on Tuesday.
What restrictions apply to the West Bank during the holiday?
Israel imposed a general closure on the occupied West Bank, restricting Palestinian movement into Israel and temporarily closing all crossings between the territory and Israel.
How do local communities in your area observe significant national or religious holidays?
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