ShalomNewYork.com

(Il. Photo@DayLife.com)
” Yidden may be banned from davening at the Kosel for the first time since the site was restored to Jewish rule some 60 years ago during the upcoming visit by Pope Benedict XVI. The rov of the Kosel, Rav Shmuel Rabinowitz, said he is strongly against the idea, but some officials are saying that to ensure the safety of the Pope, they will have to have all people leave the area starting the night before he arrives until he leaves. Nine years ago this month, Pope John Paul II visited the Kosel.  ”Jews have been davening at the Kosel for almost 42 years,” said Rav Rabinowitz. “The Kosel must remain open during [the Pope’s] entire visit for every individual who wishes to daven.” During the Jordanian rule of eastern Yerushalayim, Jews were not permitted to visit the Kosel. After the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel had all religious sites opened to those of all faiths.” Matzav.com