Pilgrims from Israel reach Uman via Romania: Moldova closed transit, 35,000 Hasidim expected

In 2025, Moldova refused the transit of pilgrims through Chisinau. The main route is through the Iasi airport in Romania. About 35,000 Hasidim are expected in Uman.

New route: through Iasi and Odessa

In 2025, Israeli pilgrims heading to Rosh Hashanah at the grave of Rabbi Nachman in Uman will no longer be able to use transit through Chisinau. The Moldovan authorities refused cooperation, citing financial and technical difficulties.

Now the main route is through Romania. Planes from Israel land at Iasi Airport, after which pilgrims transfer to buses and taxis to Odessa, and from there continue to Uman.

Why not Chisinau

Last year, Chisinau airport received charter flights with pilgrims, but in 2025 the parties could not reach an agreement. For many, this was unexpected: the route through Moldova was shorter and more convenient.

The decision of Chisinau added hassle and costs. Now the journey is longer and more expensive, but there is no alternative.

How many pilgrims are expected

According to the United Jewish Community of Ukraine, by mid-September about 8,000 Hasidim had already arrived in Uman. But this is just the beginning.

A total of about 35,000 pilgrims are expected — more than last year when 33,500 Breslov Hasidim came to the city.

When is the holiday

Rosh Hashanah 5786 will begin on the evening of September 22 and end on the evening of September 24. These dates will be the peak of the pilgrimage.

Security enhancement

Ukrainian authorities have strengthened the security of the area where the pilgrimage takes place. Checkpoints have been set up, and each pilgrim undergoes inspection at introscopes.

In addition, a special regime has been introduced in Uman: streets around the pilgrimage site are closed, traffic is restricted, and patrolling is intensified.

What this means for Israel

For Israelis planning to go to Uman, the trip will become more expensive and complicated. But despite the war and new logistical difficulties, the flow of pilgrims does not decrease.

In fact, Ukraine and Israel show the world: tradition lives on even in conditions of war and instability.

Conclusion

• Transit through Moldova is closed.

• The main route for pilgrims from Israel is through Iasi (Romania) and Odessa.

• About 35,000 Hasidim are expected in Uman.

• Security is enhanced: checkpoints, inspections, special regime.

📌 For Ukraine and Israel, this event has become another confirmation: despite threats, the pilgrimage to Uman remains an important part of the spiritual life of thousands of people.