As Israeli security forces raised the level of alert throughout the country in wake of threats received by the defense establishment of attempts by terrorists to launch attacks over the Purim holiday, a 49 year old Israeli was stabbed near Damascus Gate, one of the entrances to the Old City. The man identified as a Rabbi was stabbed in the neck and said to be in moderate condition.
A closure will be imposed on the West Bank today barring Palestinians from entering Israel and will remain in effect until next Monday. The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) has received seven specific warning of imminent attacks.
Thousands of police, and border police will be deployed throughout the country over the weekend, and security will be beefed up at bus stations, entertainment venues and shopping malls during the holiday. IDF soldiers and other security forces will beef up their presence along the seam line area that acts as a buffer between Israel and the West Bank, and will also increase patrols.
The security establishment is also monitoring the situation as the forty day mourning period for Hizbullah arch terrorist Imad Mugniyah draws to an end. Israeli officials fear Hizbullah may attempt to launch an attack to avenge his death after accusing Israel of being behind the bombing in Damascus, a claim Israel has denied.
Purim has often been chosen by terrorists to launch attacks. In March 2004, 10 people were killed and 18 wounded in a double suicide bomb attack at the Ashdod sea port. Hamas and Al Aksa Martyrs Brigades, , claimed responsibility for the attack. In March 1997, three women were killed in a suicide bomb attack in Tel Aviv and over fifty were wounded. In 1996, 13 people were killed in a suicide bombing in Tel Aviv, the majortiy teens and young children celebrating Purim. and a day earlier a Hamas suicide bomber killed 18 people on a bus in Jerusalem.03/18/08
Margot Dudkevitch
Infolive.tv
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