A ceasefire does not mean the IDF and other security agencies are asleep and the first night following the cessation of fighting was used to permit IDF soldiers to launch a major arrest operation throughout Yehuda and Shomron.

In response to the sharp increase in Arab violence during Operation Pillar of Defense, including shooting attacks, rock throwing attacks and firebomb attacks, the IDF working with Shin Bet agents arrested 55 suspects involved in acts of terror, sending a clear message to Hamas in Gaza that the Israeli administration is no longer willing to tolerate the violent attacks.

Included among the 55 are Hamas members of parliament, Islamic Jihad members and terrorists affiliated with PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas’ (Abu Mazen) Fatah.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)