Security forces on high alert ahead of holiday weekend

IDF deploys mass forces across West Bank and Israel-Egypt border fearing terror attack, as police bolster deployment nationwide and in east Jerusalem. MDA on high alert as well

Ynet reporters|Published: 09.28.11 , 16:52

As Israel readies to welcome Rosh Hashana, the nation's security forces have declared a high state of alert fearing terror groups may try to carry out an attack over the long holiday weekend.

Despite the relative calm in Gaza Strip and the West Bank, the defense establishment decided to forge on with Operation Summer Seeds, launched in late August with the purpose of dealing with the possibility of clashes with Palestinians following the PA's UN bid for statehood.

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On Tuesday, and following a security situation assessment, Defense Minister Ehud Barak ordered to impose a closure on the West Bank, starting at midnight and lasting throughout Rosh Hashanah weekend; with exceptions for medical emergencies and humanitarian cases.

IDF deployment along the Israel-Egypt border has been bolstered following an imminent terror threat in the sector; and IDF forces stationed in the southern sector have been joined by Reserves forces.

Military intelligence indicates that a 10-person terror cell plans to infiltrate Israel an attempt to carry out an attack similar to that which claimed the lives of eight Israelis in mid August.

The Israel Police will also be on high alert throughout the holiday weekend. Mass police presence will be noted in city centers and especially in east Jerusalem, where police forces are expected to hold regular patrols.

Joining the regular police forces will be Highway Police officers, who will increase their presence on all major highways.

Magen David Adom emergency services have also upped their readiness level ahead of Rosh Hashana weekend to B – one below their highest.