Jerusalem Celebrates Wartime Shushan Purim as Missile Sirens Sound During Holiday Prayers

Jerusalem observed Shushan Purim on Wednesday, celebrating the Jewish holiday one day later than most of the world due to its historical status as a walled city — a tradition tied to ancient Persia, now modern Iran. Missile sirens sounded during morning Megillah readings as thousands of residents gathered despite emergency regulations banning large public gatherings. Many Israelis chose to celebrate in bomb shelters, underground parking garages, and open-air markets, with costumes and festive spirit intact. Rabbinical authorities debated whether Zoom readings of the Megillah fulfilled Jewish law requirements for hearing it in person.