The Security Cabinet met on Monday, Rosh Chodosh Av, to discuss the situation on Har Habayis, focusing on the Waqf’s refusal to accept the metal detectors placed on the site by Israel. Following the meeting, the forum released the following statement indicating once again, Israel is backing down and agrees to remove the metal detectors.

1. The Security Cabinet accepted the recommendation of all of the security bodies to incorporate security measures based on advanced technologies (“smart checks”) and other measures instead of metal detectors in order to ensure the security of visitors and worshippers in the Old City and on Har Habayis.

2. Until the implementation of the plan, the Israel Police will reinforce its units and carry out additional actions as necessary in order to ensure the security of visitors on Har Habayis.

3. The Security Cabinet decided to allocate a budget of up to NIS 100 million to implement the plan (over a time frame of up to six months) including an across-the-board cut as necessary, according to the plan to be presented by the Public Security Ministry.

The cost of the plan will also include financing for police personnel positions in accordance with the recommendation of the police.

It appears the Waqf Authority also remain opposed to the above, meaning the removal of the metal detectors and implementing new security arrangements.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)