Ultra-Orthodox Israelis on the Lebanese side of the border, near Houla, on March 7, 2025. (Credit: NNA)
An Israeli battalion published an announcement about "prayers at the tomb of Babylonian rabbi Rav Ashi," which is located opposite to Houla (Marjayoun district) within Lebanese territory, according to the correspondent of the Israeli army's radio.
"The visit to the tomb complex for 'Selichot prayers' on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, [which refers to the Jewish New Year,] was conducted under battalion-level security," the channel reported, noting that it was not "approved by the authorized military authorities, did not follow the designated routes and violated military regulations."
The Israeli army told the station in response to an inquiry that "an investigation will be conducted into the matter and procedures will be clarified."
In March 2025, a group of ultra-Orthodox Israelis entered southern Lebanese territory near Houla for a "religious visit" organized by the Israeli army to the tomb of rabbi Rav Ashi.
In February of the same year, ultra-Orthodox Israelis, who were seeking to visit Ashi's tomb, were arrested by the Israeli army after illegally crossing the border into Lebanon.
Since a "cease-fire" reached months ago, daily Israeli bombardments continue across Southern Lebanon, accompanied by intensive demolition operations in the more than 600 square kilometers of territory still occupied by Israel. Houla is one of dozens of villages still occupied.
