IDF Raises Alert Levels for ‘Nakba’ Commemorations
by JNS.org
JNS.org – The Israel Defense Forces heightened levels of preparedness ahead of Palestinians’ annual “Nakba Day” (“Day of the Catastrophe”) commemorations, which take place throughout the West Bank on Thursday, Israel Hayom reported.
The IDF deployed reinforcements in the West Bank and decided to keep soldiers on their bases over the coming weekend, which could be a volatile one due to its proximity to
“Nakba Day”—marked annually by Palestinians on May 15, the day after the Gregorian calendar date of Israel’s Independence Day.
While Israeli defense officials said serious unrest and incidents of extreme violence were not expected, the IDF’s Central Command did not take any chances, boosting readiness and refreshing riot control procedures for soldiers.
The IDF said the greatest threat for unrest was at the normal sensitive spots, including Hebron, Qalandia, Beitunia, Kafr Qaddum, and the entrance to Nablus.
Meanwhile, Deputy Interior Minister Faina Kirschenbaum requested Wednesday that Finance and Education ministry officials withhold funding from Israeli academic institutions that have supported or are continuing to support “Nakba Day” commemorations.