By Yechiel Spira for YWN:

Since elite Israeli forces eliminated four Islamic Jihad terrorists in Bethlehem on Wednesday evening, 17 rockets have landed in and around the Sderot area. A number of people have been treated for hysteria and property damage has been reported.

Security remains higher than usual nationwide as tonight mark’s one week since the heinous attack in Jerusalem’s Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva, which claimed the lives of eight students, leaving others physically wounded, some seriously. This in addition to an increase in rocket attacks from Gaza and intelligence community warnings pertaining to the northern border, citing a step-up in Hizbullah activities.

Also contributing to security establishment concerns is the reality that Hizbullah may plan an attack to mark one month since the fatal car bomb attack that claimed the life of the terror organizations second in command.

On Thursday morning, the families of the victims concluded sitting shiva, preparing to somehow get on with their lives despite the pain and anguish surrounding the attack.

The yeshiva is scheduled to host a major memorial event Thursday evening for all the victims, as both students and teachers work harmoniously towards emerging from the trauma of the attack, which has left an emotional imprint on the entire institution.

Visitors have been making their way to the yeshiva the entire week, which is located in the Kiryat Moshe neighborhood, some seeking to express their solidarity, others to see and feel the site where the attack occurred.

The Jewish Agency for Israel has also announced it will be making an effort towards assisting the families, posting photos and details of the victims on its website.

A large turnout is expected for the Thursday evening memorial event, which will include representatives of all families. The event is scheduled to get underway at 6:00pm Israel time.