Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu was landing in Ben-Gurion Airport on Wednesday night as the Sarona Market terror attack was taking place. He was briefed immediately and headed directly from the airport to the Defense Ministry for a briefing with security and intelligence heads.

One of the decisions made was to freeze 83,000 entry permits into “Israel proper” for Muslims during the month of Ramadan. This refers to permits given to residents of PA (Palestinian Authority) areas in Yehuda and Shomron, who wish to pray on Har Habayis during the Muslim holy month. In all likelihood the move is little more than cosmetic and many if not most of the permits will be reissued as pressure builds up on Israel for collectively punishing PA residents during their religious month.

Other related actions that were announced is the freezing of work permits for over 200 members of the families of the two terrorists.

In addition to the urgent briefing that was held on Wednesday night by PM Netanyahu, the Security Cabinet convened on Thursday afternoon 3 Sivan.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)