Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, 18 Elul, attended a special briefing to discuss the alarming increase in Arab terror attacks against motorists on the Jerusalem-Modi’in Highway, known also as Route 443. Also taking part in the meeting were Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, the director of the ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) and other relevant officials.

Mr. Netanyahu explained he is unwilling to accept daily reports of rock and firebomb attacks against motorists in Jerusalem and the area. Mr. Netanyahu reportedly called for a zero tolerance to terrorism policy. He called on relevant agencies to assign additional manpower to the highway and asked to look into possibly installing surveillance cameras and increased lighting along the roadway. Portions of the highway have no lighting whatsoever.

Border police will deploy two additional companies of soldiers and Israel Police announces an additional 400 policemen will be assigned to the roadway.

The prime minister was told that the judicial system is having difficulty dealing with minors involved in rock-throwing and firebomb attacks. He was also told the open-fire orders will be reevaluated regarding responding to rock attacks and firebomb attacks.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)