The ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) reports a sharp increase in Arab terrorist attacks in Yehuda, Shomron and Yerushalayim, coinciding with renewed diplomatic talks between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority).

Shin Bet officials equate the significant increase in Arab terror attacks since July 2013 to the resumption of diplomatic talks. The sharpest increase has been in attacks involving firebombs. The worst month was November 2013, during which the Shin Bet documented 167 attacks, as compared to 139 in April and 82 in January.

The experts admit to the sharp increase in attacks in Yehuda and Shomron during recent months, due in part to the passive support enjoyed from PA officials in Ramallah. The daily Maariv reports that military officials however do not see an organized infrastructure as being responsible for the increase in attacks and senior security officials announced this week they do not fear the beginning of a “third intifada” at present. The same officials acknowledge ongoing cooperation with PA security forces, which have eliminated terror cells identified by Israel.

Referring to November, officials cite the biggest increase in terror that month was in the capital, documenting 55 attacks, most involving the use of firebombs.

The report states the experts anticipate another increase in violence in the spring of 2014, when the ongoing diplomatic process between Israel and the PA is to have reached a decisive stage. At that time PA residents will ascertain if the talks have led to an agreement or alternatively, a dead end.

Maariv adds the experts are not optimistic regarding an agreement being reached, which they expect will result in even more terror attacks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)