IDF Central District Commander Major-General Nitzan Alon met with senior PA (Palestinian Authority) officials in an effort to calm the recent escalation in violence throughout areas of Yehuda and Shomron. The PA’s Chief of Security and police chief attended the meeting.

Alon expressed Israel’s concerns that PA leader Abu Mazen was not doing what he needed to do to calm the situation. Officials reportedly explained the PA leader halts the incitement within the PA but he cannot be responsible for actions against Israeli forces.

The PA representatives aired their complaints too, stating one cannot continue calling for peace and calming the situation while announcing new construction in Jewish communities throughout Yehuda and Shomron.

Israel also stressed its security forces do not plan offensives against any PA residents but they will continue acting as required to prevent terror attacks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)