Israel, Ukraine Deploy Police, Medics to Secure 40,000 Pilgrims in Uman

Israel and Ukraine have coordinated a joint security operation to protect tens of thousands of Hasidic pilgrims traveling to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah amid the ongoing Russian war. The plan, agreed upon by Israel's Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir and Ukrainian Ambassador Yevgen Korniychuk, includes the deployment of dozens of Israeli police officers, paramedics, ultra-Orthodox volunteers, and border agents working alongside Ukrainian counterparts. Ukraine's Chief Rabbi Moshe Reuven Asman will oversee a dedicated medical and security network stationed at border crossings and on the ground to support and ensure the pilgrims’ safety. Israeli officials emphasize the unprecedented nature of the cooperation, highlighting the importance placed by Israel on the safety of travelers despite Ukraine’s severe security challenges. Both countries aim for a safe and well-organized pilgrimage, with Ukrainian officials expressing commitment to holding a secure event despite wartime conditions. This operation follows years of uncertainty about the pilgrimage's safety due to Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities far from the frontlines.