Following the deadly arson attack in the PA (Palestinian Authority) village of Duma during the night, police on Friday, erev Shabbos Nachamu moved to threat level 3, a heightened level of operations. Police also imposed restrictions for Muslims going to Friday prayers on Har Habayis, prohibiting all men under the age of 50 in the hope of preventing Islamic violence.

Early Friday afternoon a Jewish motorist traveling near Kochav HaShachar was targeted by gunfire in a drive-by shooting attack. B’chasdei Hashem there were no fatalities or injuries.

An Israel Police spokesman announced thousands of police, border police and volunteer units will be deployed in entertainment area and heavily visited areas to prevent any attacks and to increase citizens’ feeling of security. Police will be increasingly vigilant regarding special events and camp activities in cities, ensuring everything is properly approved and in adherence with regulations. Police are using undercover units along with uniformed officers.

Adding to concerns for police and fire officials is the heatwave that began on Thursday, extremely hot and dry temperatures are predicted for around the country in the following week, and temperatures in the capital will be over 100F on some days and with the heat index, temperatures will feel more like 105F and hotter at times. police will rely heavily on airborne units to detect fires in the hope of alerting the fire service in an expeditious fashion.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)