Israel Police have boosted security throughout the Old City of Jerusalem Sunday, ahead of an expected turnout of tens of thousands on the first Intermediate Day (Chol HaMoed) of the Passover holiday.
Jewish visitors are permitted on the Temple Mount until 11:00 am Sunday, police said. In addition, Women of the Wall will be holding a special prayer session at the Western Wall Sunday morning - but will not be allowed to conduct services during the Birkat Kohanim (Priestly Blessings) Monday, as per a decision from the Legal Advisory.
Police announced last week that security would be boosted at tourist sites nationwide, and throughout the capital, in advance of the usual influx of tourists from within and outside Israel during the weeklong holiday.
At the height of events are usually the Priestly Blessing ceremonies during morning services at the Western Wall, which every year attract tens of thousands of people; the Chief Rabbis, Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef and Rabbi David Lau, will be conducting a welcoming ceremony before the Blessings on Monday.