Israeli security forces in Jerusalem’s Old City after a stabbing attack on April 1, 2017. Photo: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90.

JNS.org – Following two Palestinian stabbing attacks in Jerusalem’s Old City within a week, a senior officer from the Israel Police has warned of a possible increase in terror attacks during the upcoming Passover holiday.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to visit Jerusalem during Passover, prompting security officials to take extra precautions before the festivities amid heightened tensions in the capital city.

Commander Doron Turgeman, who oversees security operations in the Old City, told Army Radio Sunday, “Holidays and festivals over the years have caused higher tensions and sensitivity and are a preferred period for attacks….Ahead of the festival, there will be wider deployment based on assessments of the situation. We are here to enable the holiday to go ahead as usual.”

The commander’s warning came after two Israeli civilians and a police officer were injured Saturday in a stabbing attack by a 17-year-old Palestinian terrorist in the Old City.

Also in advance of Passover, the Israeli military recently completed the largest training exercise of the past five years in Judea and Samaria.