Public Security Minister Yitzchak Aharonovich on Tuesday morning 14 Elul visited areas of Yerushalayim including French Hill. The visit follows the growing number of terror incidents in predominately Arab areas of the capital and in French Hill. One of those incidents this week involved Arabs hurling firebombs at the gas station, which resulted in significant damage. He masked attackers trashed the gas station, smashing counters in the convenience store and windows, as well as setting areas on fire. They also attacked Jews in the areas with stones.

The minister was briefed by senior police commanders on the situation, the increase in Arab violence, rioting and attacks, including attacks against the Jerusalem light rail. Just a few minutes after the minister left the area another rock attack against the light rail took place in Shuafat. B’chasdei Hashem there were no injuries.

Aharonovich validated the fears or French Hill residents as well as their growing concerns for their personal safety. He promised them Jerusalem police is in control and law and order will be restored. He commended police in minimizing the number of fatalities and injuries among rioters in the recent wave of violence.

The minister explained he is aware violent attacks are still occurring and there will be an increase in manpower and other measures will be taken to restore order.

Jerusalem Police Chief Yossi Pariente added “I am not naïve. This is a difficult period. We will arrest anyone that is involved in violence. I estimate this will not be the last attack. We cannot achieve zero attacks. The arrests and criminal indictments of late have reached unprecedented numbers”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)