_a.jpg "Photo: Dana Kopel")
Dichter: Palestinians wary of Gaza offensive
Internal security minister tours Negev region, says PA initiated ceasefire for fear of extensive IDF operation in Strip; Education Minister Tamir: If Qassam fire continues we will not be able to ignore it
Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter said Sunday that the Palestinians declared a ceasefire to prevent Israel from launching a large-scale military operation in the Gaza Strip.
Dichter, who spoke while touring the Negev region, said that such operation would "make their lives different."
During the minister’s meeting with the residents of Kibbutz Nir Am the “Color Red” alert system was activated and an explosion was heard nearby.
“The operation in Gaza was supposed to be approved by cabinet; this was the Palestinians consideration. According to Dichter, the ceasefire is not linked the government’s efforts to bring about the release of kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit.
“Even if there is calm and a ceasefire exists, the efforts to return Shalit will continue,” he said.
The “Color Red” alert system was also activated during Education Minister Yuli Tamir’s visit to Sderot; two Qassams fell in the city shortly thereafter while the minister was inside a local school that suffered a rocket attack last week.
Tamir said Israel would not tolerate Qassam attacks against communities in the western Negev forever.
"I hope ... the Palestinian will start controlling the various factions. It is a common interest to all, but if the firing continues we will not be able to ignore that. We have a common interest to reach a ceasefire agreement," she said.
Sderot Municipality vs. Government
The minister added that when the system was activated she was surprised to discover how children respond with expertise to the alarm and how calm they were. "The government approved and will approve many projects for Sderot residents and communities adjacent to Gaza," she added.
Meanwhile and child was injured in a nearby school. When the Red Color warning system was activated Tehila Mor Yossef ran to the shelter. She was injured in the leg. Her mother Rina said: "She fell from shock, and her legs are all swollen. They were supposed to leave on trip to Beit Shemesh, but Magen David Adom personnel are treating her now."
The government will approve an aid package to Sderot and communities situated near the Gaza Strip. The Sderot Municipality meanwhile will file a petition against the government and the Prime Minister.
"The plan is harmful and disgusting, and mainly discriminates against Sderot residents to the benefit of local authorities and kibbutzim. There is a sum of NIS 100 million (USD 23.5) for towns and kibbutzim, and NIS 30 million (USD 7 million) for Sderot. The government is compensating farmers with NIS 17 million (USD 3.9 million) for damages to agriculture, but no business in Sderot is entitled to compensation or recognition," read the petition.
