Despite US President Barak Obama’s decision to seek congressional approval for a military strike against Syria, forces in Israel remain on alert. After the announcement and yet another delay regarding a US strike, there are growing doubts in Israel if Obama will order the strike at all. However, for the time being, forces in Israel remain on alert.

The deployment of the Iron Dome rocket intercept batteries has been completed, with one now standing guard of the Gush Dan area, another in Tzfat and one in the south. The feeling of an imminent attack has not harmed tourism in the north as tzimmers and hotels report seasonable bookings.

While the IDF originally planned to cancel all leaves for soldiers, it was decided ahead of Shabbos to permit a limited number of soldiers to take Shabbos off as planned. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz is constantly updated by senior commanders and for the time being, the northern border remains calm.

Gas mask distribution is continuing and as was the case last week, thousands of Israelis are waiting in lines to receive one.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)