Is the Tomb of the Patriarchs going to close over a funding dispute?

Israel’s Ministry of Religious Services has ordered preparations to close the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron within 14 days unless a legally authorized source of funding is secured for the holy site’s operations.

Under the directive, officials would lock the site’s entrances and suspend visits, tours and events until the ministry secures funding. Around one million people visit the Tomb of the Patriarchs each year, according to the site’s administration.

The funding problem follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that suspended budget requests the Knesset Finance Committee had approved. The site has relied in part on coalition funds that never became part of the formal state budget. As a result, the Religious Services Ministry currently has no authorized source to finance operations.

Ministry Director General Yehuda Avidan said the state cannot make financial commitments without an approved funding source, prompting preparations for a closure if the issue is not resolved within two weeks.

The closure preparations would also include issuing dismissal notices to employees, ending contracts with outside suppliers and canceling scheduled events. Officials were also told to coordinate with the IDF, Israel Police and Border Police to transfer responsibility for securing and physically managing the site if civilian operations stop.

The potential closure comes as extensive renovation and safety work is underway at the site. Recent projects include upgrades to the electrical and drainage systems, new lighting, fire protection and air conditioning, as well as construction of a permanent roof over the Jewish prayer area.

The Tomb of the Patriarchs’ administration declined to comment further on the funding dispute. Unless officials approve a new funding source, the ministry’s directive calls for the site to close within 14 days.