Security forces on high alert for Purim
Defense establishment put on heightened state of alert as Purim festivities are underway throughout country. Thousands of police officers, firefighters and ambulance crews ensure safety at celebrations, on look out for hostile attacks
A full closure has been imposed on the territories as a precautionary measure taken for the holiday. The closure is expected to be lifted by Wednesday at midnight.
"The nation of Israel can go out and celebrate," said Chief Superintendent Moshe Bareket, head of the police operations department. "They should enjoy themselves and have fun. We will be everywhere.
"We ask that the public be alert and to call the police if they come across anything suspicious, and we will be there as soon as possible."
In preparation for the holiday, the police and the military upped the alert level throughout the country out of concern that terrorist organizations will seek to carry out an attack during the festivities.
"Preparations began following the briefing held over the weeks with Police Commissioner Dudi Cohen," Bareket told Ynet. "The holiday events already began throughout the country over the weekend and will peak today in many locations, tomorrow in Jerusalem."
"The main event is slated to start at 12 pm when the Holon Purim parade starts. To this end, many forces have been dispatched and roads are expected to be closed, as well as in other locations holding Purim parades," added Bareket.
The police increased security checks at the entrance to major cities and have upped their presence in crowded areas. Police activity is not limited only to defense, however, and will also focus on youth criminal activity and alcohol consumption.
"Our emphasis today is on street events," added Bareket, "but last night and tonight the emphasis will be on parties in clubs and youth events."
The police, the Border Guard, and civil volunteers are focusing activity on the Seam Line, and Jerusalem and its surroundings.
Within the past week, two events took place in the capital city on a nationalist backdrop. A stabbing attack was stymied Monday in the Pisgat Ze'ev neighborhood of Jerusalem, and a tractor attack injured two police officers last week.
Avi Cohen contributed to this report
