Over 20 rockets have been fired into southern Israel in recent days yet Defense Minister Ehud Barak continues fantasizing about the ceasefire, continuing to issue warnings but failing to order significant military action towards halting attacks. Over 20 people were treated in hospital on erev Shabbos, most for hysteria but some for light injuries sustained in rocket attacks.

Barak on Shabbos stated the current situation is “intolerable” and warned that if it continues, a major military response may follow. Barak went on to support the ceasefire, which he insists provided southern residents with about a half year of relative quiet. Opponents on the other hand insist that Hamas is escalating the warfare to compel an IDF response now that the terror organization has prepared itself for the next round of fighting.

This was made possible they explain by Barak providing them the ceasefire period to rearm and improve the ability of the Gaza-based terrorists.

Barak also stated that the ceasefire in no way compromised ongoing efforts towards obtaining the release of captive IDF soldier, Gilad Shalit.

Barak on erev Shabbos visited Sderot and was met by angry residents who demanded the IDF halt the bombardment. Five rockets landed in Ashkelon on Friday and the city’s mayor is contemplating moving to an emergency status, which would include opening the city’s public shelters, as is the case in Sderot.

PA (Palestinian Authority) sources following a Sunday morning rocket attack report the IAF targeted terrorists in Gaza, killing three and leaving others injured.

Likud MK Dr. Yuval Shteinitz has initiated an urgent session of the Knesset Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee, supported by other committee members, explaining Israel must begin weighing options and taking action to halt the attacks on civilians in Israel’s southern area.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)