Masses of ultra-Orthodox worshipers flooded Mount Meron on Lag B'Omer despite government efforts to sharply limit attendance due to fears of rocket fire from Hezbollah. Authorities had restricted outdoor gatherings to 200 people and planned only three small bonfire ceremonies at the site, which typically draws more than 100,000 pilgrims. Footage showed thousands entering the complex, lighting bonfires, and in some cases dismantling barriers erected by police.

Police had closed roads and claimed they were preventing large-scale entry, but by nightfall it was clear that many had bypassed checkpoints, with some walking through private farmland to reach the mountain. Officials initially denied that significant numbers had entered illegally, yet estimates suggested that up to 20,000 people were already in the area before the holiday began. Unlike in previous years, there were no reports of major clashes between officers and worshipers.

The pilgrimage has faced repeated disruptions in recent years due to security tensions and safety concerns, including a deadly crowd crush in 2021 that killed 45 people. In an effort to reduce attendance at Meron, alternative bonfire ceremonies were held in Jerusalem and other locations, drawing tens of thousands. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir praised police for their restrained approach while urging the public not to travel to the site.