Rosh Hashanah in Uman: Over 6,000 pilgrims arrive as security tightens
Rosh Hashanah in Uman will draw approximately 40,000 Hasidic worshipers this year, according to official projections by the United Jewish Community of Ukraine. More than 6,000 pilgrims have already reached the gravesite of Rabbi Nachman as of September 7. Because Ukrainian airspace remains closed under martial law, travelers rely on overland transit through neighboring countries. Moldova bears the primary transit load, with Chisinau International Airport operating under reinforced security protocols to handle the surge.
Ukrainian law enforcement agencies established a designated security zone with checkpoints and metal detectors throughout the pilgrimage quarter. A contingent of 17 Israeli police officers arrived in Uman to conduct round-the-clock joint patrols, assist with civil order, and bridge language barriers. Personnel from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine set up additional field posts and distributed fire safety guidelines regarding portable gas cylinders.
Rescue officials urged every visitor to obey civil defense sirens and proceed to bomb shelters immediately during air raid alerts. In addition, paramedics and volunteers from the Israeli emergency medical group United Hatzalah deployed first-aid clinics directly adjacent to the burial compound. Municipal authorities anticipate the peak influx of arrivals in the coming days ahead of the festival.
