JERUSALEM – Israeli authorities will cover the costs of logistics and security for citizens traveling to Uman, Ukraine, for the traditional Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean said in a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Moldovan Ambassador Alex Roitman.
Subscribe to our Daily Roundup Email
The discussion focused on the arrangements for this year’s pilgrimage, including security and transport, which will be funded by Israel. Pilgrims must travel through Moldova because there are no direct flights into Ukraine, a situation that has restricted visits since the Russian invasion in 2022.
The Israeli government has earmarked NIS 10 million ($3 million) to support the pilgrimage. Funding will come from the Foreign, Transportation, Interior, and Jerusalem Affairs and Heritage ministries.
Ukraine has not yet commented on the planned pilgrimage, which in previous years has been discouraged due to security concerns.
Separately, reports indicate that Shas leader Aryeh Deri is negotiating with the Defense Ministry to allow Haredi men under military travel restrictions to attend, arguing that the journey is a religious duty. Officials expect tens of thousands of Israelis could participate despite the ongoing conflict.