Jooish

JUST IN: Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the IDF to impose a general closure across Judea and Samaria during the Sukkot holiday, barring Palestinian workers from entering Israeli communities in the area. Katz said the decision was made following a recommendation from the IDF amid heightened security tensions. Under the directive, Palestinians holding work permits will not be allowed to enter communities in Judea and Samaria for the duration of the holiday. Limited exceptions will remain in place. Workers deemed essential may be permitted to enter industrial zones, subject to security guidelines issued by the IDF Central Command. Additional exceptions may also be granted in accordance with the government’s obligations to the High Court of Justice. According to figures from last year, roughly 9,000 Palestinians held permits allowing them to work in Israeli communities or nearby industrial zones in Judea and Samaria.