Ashdod Mayor Dr. Yechiel Lasri tells the media that while he is pleased the warfare has stopped; he is not celebrating just yet and will wait to evaluate the integrity of the ceasefire.

Regarding the opening of schools on September 1st, he explains “we have five days. If by then there has been a total cessation of rocket fire then schools may open on schedule”. Dr. Lasri is among the growing number of mayors in southern Israel expressing concerns over opening schools as rocket fire from Gaza continues.

In a related message, the head of the Eshkol Regional Council has instructed residents who have relocated not to return home at this time despite the ceasefire declaration. He told Channel 2 News that we must wait for at least three days to evaluate the integrity of the ceasefire and learn the details of the deal.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)