Officers on high alert (archives)
Photo: AP
Police on high alert ahead of High Holidays
West Bank placed under general closure, police to boost activity in crowded areas, synagogues to be secured by volunteers, and traffic police to be deployed throughout country to ensure safe, peaceful holidays
The security establishment was on high alert Friday, the eve of Rosh Hashana. The West Bank was put under a general closure at midnight, which will be lifted until after the holiday, and police raised their alert level throughout the country.
At the same time, security activity in crowded areas, shopping centers, hitchhikers' stations and trains has been increased. Particularly busy areas will be deemed "security territory" where temporary police stations will be set up for the public's safety.
Many synagogues will be secured by police volunteers, in order to provide worshippers with a feeling of safety. In addition, security checks at international border crossings will be boosted, and activity against illegal residents will continue.
Traffic police will be deployed on busy roads and at junctions throughout the country, and police will work against people driving under the influence of alcohol. A special emphasis will be put on the greater Jerusalem area.
Police will pay special attention to the capital, and the Western Wall area in particular. In addition, alert will be increased ahead of the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr to take place at the start of next week.
Police will remain alert for the duration of the High Holidays, as well as the students' return to school.
The northern district will also be on high alert, and as early as Thursday, police forces were deployed along major traffic routes and crowded places.
In addition, a special emphasis will be placed on mixed cities, following the serious clashes that took place last year in Akko. The city will be reinforced with police and Border Guard officers, in order to prevent any friction and maintain peace in the city.
Sharon Roffe - Ofir contributed to this report
