The cabinet approved 5,000 additional work permits for PA (Palestinian Authority) residents to boost ailing PA economy.

11:52: Rock-throwing attacks against a bus and private vehicle near Tekoa in E. Gush Etzion.

** Egypt denies a Hamas request for a free trade zone.

** The government has taken a step to reduce the price of cable/satellite TV in Israel, similar to lowering the cellular telephone costs. Under the approved plan, the two companies, ‘Yes’ and ‘Hot’ will have to provide a basic 16-channel package for 100-120 NIS monthly, which is less than smaller packages offered today.

** A bandit made off with an undisclosed sum from a Mizrachi Bank in Yahud on Thursday afternoon. Police are searching for the perpetrator.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)