WATCH: Operations Blue Shield 7
Critical Road Closures Start in Jerusalem to Welcome JD Vance: Essential UPDATES
Critical updates on road closures and security measures for US Vice President JD Vance's visit to Israel. Key highway blockages and traffic disruptions announced for Jerusalem and surroundings.
The Israel Police have launched "Blue Shield 7," a complex, integrated national security operation to secure the arrival and movement of Vice President of the United States, James David Vance, who begins his visit to Israel today, Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at noon.
The operation involves the massive deployment of hundreds of police officers, Border Guard soldiers, and volunteers across key sectors, including Ben Gurion Airport, Kiryat Gat, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the main highways connecting them. Forces will be dedicated to security, escort, maintaining public order, and directing the significant traffic changes resulting from the high-profile visit.
Major Highway Blockages Announced for Tuesday
Travelers today face substantial disruptions, with the Israel Police announcing phased closures on critical routes, urging the public to seek alternative routes and adjust travel plans accordingly.
Phase I: Blockages Starting at 13:45
Phase II: Blockages Starting at 15:45
Security and City Disruptions
Beyond the highways, the "Blue Shield 7" operation will see command centers and police stations operating in a reinforced format to ensure effective command and control throughout the Vice President’s stay.
The police have also confirmed that traffic disruptions and blockages within the city of Jerusalem are to be expected tomorrow and on Thursday, along with possible further changes on the main roads leading into the capital. The Israel Police has committed to providing ongoing updates regarding all planned blockages and expected traffic arrangement changes.
A strict complete ban on the use of any aircraft (including drones) is in effect for the airspace over Ben Gurion Airport, the South, and Jerusalem for the entire duration of the visit.
The Israel Police emphasized their commitment to successfully executing the national operation covering command, control, security, public order, and traffic management, while striving to minimize disruption to the public's daily life as much as possible.