Runners Honor Israeli Hostages, Take to Jerusalem Streets for Annual Marathon Despite Ongoing War

The event, including races at shorter distances, draws 40,000 runners and almost 50,000 onlookers.

Runners start the 5K race associated with the Jerusalem Marathon in Jerusalem on March 8, 2024. Alternativa 1

JERUSALEM—Showing that life goes on despite five months of war, Israel hosted its first major sporting event since Oct. 7, 2023. The Jerusalem Marathon drew 40,000 participants, including 1,800 from foreign countries.

Instead of being overshadowed by the country’s participation in the ongoing Israel–Hamas war, the mood at the finish line in Sacher Park on March 8 was festive.