Israel Police disperse hundreds of civilians who entered Mount Meron on Monday, on the eve of Lag Ba'omer, in an attempt to light bonfires after the government banned the event earlier this week due to the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in northern Israel.
The police confirmed they are working to prevent people from entering the complex, detaining buses and personal vehicles traveling to the site, even in violation of guidelines.
"We clarify that, given the security situation and the Home Front Command's instructions, staying in the mountain area without a permit constitutes a danger to the public," the police stated.
"We call on the public to be responsible, to celebrate the Rashbi celebration safely at home and within the communities, and not to reach the checkpoints," the police added, clarifying that entry will only be allowed for authorized people.
Israel Fire and Rescue prepares for a mass fire event in Meron
The Israel Fire and Rescue Services said in a separate statement that it had prepared for possible incidents at the Mount Meron complex, with trucks and firefighters in position to assist in the event of fires, even though such operations are banned under current security guidelines.
"Over the past year, we have worked systematically to build a broad safety envelope, from infrastructure and fire protection, through the deployment of forces to close connections with all emergency and rescue agencies," said Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi.
"Firefighters are prepared, alert, and committed to protecting public safety. I call on the public to obey instructions, act responsibly, and adhere to safety rules," he added.
Yair Elkayam, commander of the Katzrin fire brigade, added that the Fire and Rescue Services have been working over the last year to be ready to respond to a possible incident at Mount Meron during Lag Baomer, but still insisted that even with plans in place, people must follow the security guidelines.
"The Israel Fire and Rescue Services is preparing to allow the celebration to take place in a broad and safe manner, but in accordance with the decisions of the authorized bodies, the event will take place in a closed format, and we are prepared to provide a full response in this format as well," he explained.