Tensions are running high in southern Israel on Thursday (Sept. 1) as the threat of rocket attacks looms over the area, coinciding with the opening of the nation’s public schools.

Air force units could be seen operating in the city on Wednesday as efforts were underway to deploy an Iron Dome missile defense system a day before the scheduled opening of schools. Such units are already operational in Ashkelon and Sderot. The military declined to comment when asked just how long it will take until this newest unit is operational.

Sderot was planning to strike the opening of the school year in objection of a lack of funds for priority projects directly related to the attacks, but Mayor Buskila backed down after receiving a direct request from Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu not to strike, a move that would significantly complicate the situation in the south.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)