IDF Redeploys in Bethlehem For Christmas
Jerusalem----December 24.....In recent days, the Israel Defense Forces has re-deployed its security forces to the outskirts of Bethlehem, in order to allow for the celebration of the Christmas holiday in the city.
During
the holiday, the IDF will facilitate the entry of Christian Israeli-Arabs
into Bethlehem.
That entry will take place in an organized public transportation, through
checkpoint 300, at the northern part of the city.
The
entry of diplomats, tourists, foreign citizens and journalists will
be allowed in the city as well.
In addition, the entry of Christians from the West Bank that have a
special permit, will be allowed.
The IDF has stated that it will do everything possible to allow the celebration of the Christmas holidays to take place and will continue to operate according to the security situation and existing terror threats.
PA Chairman Yassar Arafat has attempted to cancel all Christmas celebrations in the West Bank.
Many private homes of Christian Arabs have been taken over by terrorists belonging to Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Fatah to attack Israel's civilian population.
Arafat's most recent action of ordering the cancellation of all Christmas celebrations has a direct impact on the economy of the West Bank and both the Christian and Muslim Arab store owners who depend upon Christmas tourists for revenue.