Thousands of participants are taking part in the Haifa Marathon. One of the races began with a half-minute applause honoring the fallen soldiers and their families, and calls for the return of hostages. Police announced that several roads in the city were closed for the race: David Elazar Street between HaMeshotim Square (near the train station) and Maxim Junction (excluding the junction), and Hubert Humphrey Street from the Marine Research complex to the cable car. Additionally, traffic will not be allowed to descend from Allenby Street toward Bat Galim during closure hours.