(New York Times) Isabel Kershner - Israel's security cabinet approved a series of measures on Thursday as part of a crackdown on rock-throwing and firebombing by Palestinians in Jerusalem. Under the new regulations, police have permission to open fire not only when their own lives are threatened, as was the case previously, but also when there is "an immediate and concrete danger" to civilians, according to a government statement. In addition, the government is preparing legislation to impose minimum prison terms of four years for adults who throw rocks, firebombs or shoot fireworks directly at people. Increased fines will be imposed on convicted minors, ages 14 to 18, and their parents, and child support benefits will be revoked for jailed minors. Israel's attorney general approved the cabinet decisions, according to a spokesman for the Justice Ministry. "We intend to change the norm that has become established here, that the State of Israel allows these deadly and murderous objects to be thrown without response and without being thwarted," Prime Minister Netanyahu said.
2015-09-25 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive