- September 11, 2025
- 9:15 pm
- Israel
Israel and Ukraine have begun joint work to coordinate the organization of Hasidic pilgrimages to Uman, marking a new stage of cooperation between the two countries. Both countries hope that the Hasidic pilgrimage will proceed peacefully and calmly, and they urge pilgrims to consider the security threats in Ukraine due to the Russian war and to respect law and order within Ukraine.
Meeting of National Security Ministers and Security Efforts
Israel’s Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir met with Ukraine’s Ambassador Yevgen Korniychuk on September 10, 2025. The discussion focused on measures to ensure the safe stay of Hasidim in Ukraine during the Rosh Hashanah holiday. The parties agreed on full cooperation in the field of security.
Details of the meeting were shared by the Embassy of Ukraine in Israel.
The initiative includes the deployment of dozens of police officers, paramedics, and volunteers, including representatives of the ultra-Orthodox community, to ensure the safety and well-being of the tens of thousands of believers expected to arrive in Uman for Rosh Hashanah.
As part of the preparations, full security coordination was agreed upon, as well as the creation of a special medical and security network in cooperation with the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Rabbi Moshe Reuven Asman. His teams will work at border crossings and on-site to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Security of Pilgrims and Authorities’ Requests
The work of joint teams at border crossings and other locations will be a key element in ensuring the safety of pilgrims. The Embassy of Ukraine urges Hasidim to exercise caution, considering the security threats amid the war with Russia. It is important to respect law and order on the territory of Ukraine.
It was agreed to strengthen direct cooperation between the police and border services of Israel and Ukraine.
Participation of Israeli Services
Dozens of Israeli police officers, paramedics, and volunteers, including representatives of the ultra-Orthodox community, will be involved in accompanying the pilgrims. This will provide additional protection and comfort measures for those arriving in Uman.
Discussion on Ongoing Cooperation
A day before the ambassador’s meeting with the Minister of National Security, Yevgen Korniychuk expressed dissatisfaction that Israel had not coordinated with Ukrainian authorities on measures for organizing the annual pilgrimage. According to him, work on this issue requires a more active approach from both sides.
Quotes
The Embassy of Ukraine in Israel provided quotes from the meeting participants.
Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir:
“The State of Israel attaches paramount importance to the safety of travelers. I welcome the cooperation with the Ukrainian government, which allows for a safe and well-organized pilgrimage to Uman. This is an unprecedented operation where dozens of police officers and volunteers ensure a holiday of prayer and joy.”
Ambassador of Ukraine Yevgen Korniychuk:
“Ukraine, despite the severity of the war with Russia and the complex security situation on the ground, strives to hold a safe and respectful event in close cooperation with Israel.”
Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Rabbi Moshe Reuven Asman:
“I welcome this cooperation so that every believer can arrive with peace of mind and in complete safety.”
This initiative marks a new stage of cooperation between Israel and Ukraine, ensuring the safety and confidence of the tens of thousands of pilgrims expected to celebrate Rosh Hashanah in Uman.
Conclusions from NAnews — Israel News
- Cooperation between Ukraine and Israel on pilgrimage issues to Uman becomes a strategic element not only in the religious but also in the political sphere. It demonstrates trust and readiness of the parties to coordinate actions even in wartime conditions.
- Israel effectively recognizes the importance of religious ties with Ukraine, as well as the need to consider the interests of its ultra-Orthodox community. For tens of thousands of pilgrims, this is a signal of confidence: they are not traveling alone but with the support of two states.
- The Ukrainian side, being in a state of war, shows the world that it is ready to ensure the safety of a large international event. This is an important image step, emphasizing resilience and the ability to cooperate even in difficult conditions.
- For Israel, this is also an opportunity to demonstrate care for its citizens abroad and strengthen diplomatic positions amid complex regional challenges.
- The main point is that this is not just about a religious holiday. Uman becomes a platform where political and spiritual dimensions connect, and the alliance between Israel and Ukraine takes practical form.
Historical Background
In 2025, the Jewish New Year — Rosh Hashanah — begins on the evening of September 22 and ends on the evening of September 24.
The tradition of mass pilgrimage to Uman is associated with the personality of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov (1772–1810) — the founder of Breslov Hasidism, who is buried in this Ukrainian city. He bequeathed to his students to gather at his grave during Rosh Hashanah, considering it a special source of spiritual renewal and blessing.
Every year, tens of thousands of Hasidim from Israel, the USA, Europe, and other countries travel to Uman to pray at Rabbi Nachman’s grave, believing that it brings purification of the soul, new spiritual strength, and luck for the entire year.
FAQ
When will Rosh Hashanah be in 2025?
September 22–24, 2025 (from Monday evening to Wednesday evening).
Why Uman?
The grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov is located there. For his followers, prayer at this place during Rosh Hashanah has special spiritual significance.
How many pilgrims are expected?
According to estimates by Ukrainian and Israeli authorities — tens of thousands, mainly from Israel, but also from the USA, Europe, and other countries.
What security measures are provided?
Joint actions of the police and services of Israel and Ukraine, the presence of Israeli police officers, paramedics, and volunteers, medical support, and enhanced patrols in the Uman area and at the border.
How does the war in Ukraine affect the pilgrimage?
The security threat remains high. Ukraine and Israel appeal to pilgrims to exercise caution and strictly adhere to laws and order.
