Israeli Ministry of Religious Services orders preparations to close Cave of the Patriarchs

Yehuda Avidan, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Religious Services, has instructed administrators of the Cave of the Patriarchs to prepare for the site's closure within 14 days. The directive follows a critical funding shortfall for the operation of the site, which is considered the second holiest in Judaism. In a letter, Avidan explained that the site's operating budget was largely dependent on coalition funds, which are currently unavailable following a Supreme Court order suspending budgetary requests approved by the Knesset Finance Committee. Avidan emphasized that the ministry is not shirking its responsibility but lacks the legal authority to continue contractual engagements without an approved budget. The closure directive mandates a total cessation of entry for visitors and worshippers, the locking of entrances, the layoff of staff, and the termination of contracts with outside vendors. Furthermore, officials have been ordered to coordinate with the IDF and Israel Police to transfer physical and security responsibility for the structure. Avidan stated that the ministry regrets the situation and will maintain these measures until a budgetary solution is arranged by the responsible authorities.