Amid the turmoil at the borders between Ukraine and Romania, which has left numerous Breslover Chassidim stranded and unable to return to Israel, community representatives have reached out to Interior Minister Moshe Arbel of Shas for help.

In their appeal, the Chassidim highlighted the disarray and overcrowding that travelers have encountered while trying to return home after their Rosh Hashanah visit to Uman, Ukraine.

In response to one of their pleas, Arbel indicated that he is unable to provide assistance, stating, “Israel is at war.” He elaborated, saying, “We are at war right now, and there was a travel warning. Whoever decided to travel anyway should take into account the risks which come with it.”

“I am sorry. I do not have any way to help,” he expressed regretfully. The government had previously issued explicit warnings to Israeli citizens advising against travel to Uman for the Yomim Tovim this year.

Community sources report that many individuals are compelled to wait in harsh weather conditions without adequate shelter.

A senior official in United Breslov explained the situation further: “The Ukrainians have created an electronic line and they only accept those who booked an appointment ahead of time. And sometimes there are no open appointments for the border for many hours ahead. It creates insane chaos.”

{Matzav.com Israel}