14th annual Jerusalem Marathon kicks off

The Jerusalem Marathon has begun, with tens of thousands of runners from Israel and around the world taking part in the 14th annual event.

Under the slogan “Am Yisrael ratz” (the nation of Israel runs), the event honors the contribution of IDF soldiers and emergency responders throughout the Gaza war.

The race takes runners through some of the city’s most famous modern and historical landmarks, including the Old City, Hebrew University, the Israel Museum, Sultan’s Pool, the Tower of David, the Armenian Quarter, and Jaffa Street.

Released hostage Karina Ariev, a surveillance soldier taken hostage by Hamas from the Nahal Oz base on October 7, 2023 and released in January after 477 days in captivity, will run the 5 kilometer race along with Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion. She is expected to give a short speech before the start.

The temperature just after 6 a.m., as runners gather at the starting line in front of the Knesset building for the marathon and half-marathon, is 10 Celsius (50 Fahrenheit). It is expected to get up to 19 Celsius (66 Fahrenheit) by the time the last runners cross the finish line.

As the marathon arrangements disrupt traffic around the city for most of the day, many Jerusalem residents are expected to come out and cheer runners and enjoy the festivities at the capital’s central Sacher Park.