Train service between Ashkelon and Ashdod changes on 16–18 July
From 16 to 18 July 2026, train service in the Ashkelon–Ashdod area will temporarily change because of infrastructure works. Residents travelling north, to central Israel or to western Negev towns should check their route in advance: some direct services will be replaced by transfers and free shuttles.
Ashkelon Municipality has published a notice about temporary changes to train service in the Ashkelon and Ashdod area from Thursday through Saturday night, 16–18 July. The stated reason is infrastructure work required for travel safety.
For passengers travelling from northern or central Israel toward the western Negev — Ashkelon, Sderot, Netivot and Ofakim — trains will end at Ashdod station. Direct rail travel to Ashkelon and onward on this route will not be available during these days. Free shuttles are expected to operate between Ashdod and Ashkelon.
In the opposite direction, from Ashkelon and western Negev towns toward the north, trains will end their route at Ashkelon. The notice also says there will be no direct travel to stations from Ashdod through Holon and the Sharon ring; passengers should continue by alternative routing using the shuttles and the updated timetable.
The Ashkelon–Binyamina line via Rehovot and Lod will also change: trains on this line will start and end at Ashdod and will not stop at Ashkelon. Regular service is expected to resume on Sunday, 19 July.
The practical step for residents is to check the route before travelling in the Israel Railways app or website and, if needed, call the service centre at *5770. If the trip is tied to work, a medical appointment or the airport, allow extra time for the transfer and shuttle.
- Ashkelon Municipality — alerts — 2026-07-15
- Israel Railways — temporary changes between Ashkelon and Ashdod — 2026-07-15
