Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday announced that Jews will be allowed to visit Joseph’s Tomb in Shechem (Nablus) during daylight hours, for the first time in 25 years.

The decision marks a dramatic change in the policies governing the site: Since the Od Yosef Chai Yeshiva at Joseph’s Tomb was evacuated in the year 2000, there have been no organized visits by Jews during daylight hours.

During the next visit to the site, the Jewish visitors will be allowed to remain at the compound until 8:00 a.m., instead of being required to leave by 4:00 a.m. The change will also allow the Shacharit (morning) prayers to be held at the site.

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