Israel, PT: Authorities will almost certainly increase security during Hanukkah Dec. 7-15

Authorities will almost certainly increase security throughout Israel and the Palestinian Territories during the Hanukkah holiday, Dec. 7-15. The current armed conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza will likely lead to heightened tensions and increase the risk of cross-border attacks during the holiday.

In Israel, security forces will likely establish roadblocks and checkpoints at the entrances to major cities and other heavily populated areas, causing significant traffic disruptions. In the West Bank, authorities will almost certainly restrict freedom of movement during the celebrations, as is standard practice for Israeli festivals and holidays. Israeli forces will likely close checkpoints outside Bethlehem, Hebron, Jenin, Jericho, Nablus, Qalqilya, Ramallah, and Tulkarm through at least Dec. 15. Palestinians may clash with Israeli security forces at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. Clashes between Israeli settlers and Palestinians are also possible in the territory. All crossings along the Israel-Gaza border will remain closed and under heavy surveillance.

Israeli officials could also restrict access to the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound in Jerusalem during the holiday period. Large groups of Jewish worshippers will likely visit the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif complex. The increased numbers could prompt Palestinian Muslim activists to protest in the area; clashes between protesters and police forces cannot be ruled out. Heightened security, transport, and commercial disruptions are likely in areas near the Temple Mount/Al-Haram Al-Sharif complex. Israeli officials may preemptively block or otherwise restrict access to the site if clashes appear imminent.

Most Israeli businesses will close for some or all of the days of Hanukkah. Historically, many people travel to visit family during the holiday period, increasing traffic on main roads.