For residents of yishuvim throughout Yehuda and Shomron the situation continues to deteriorate as firebomb and rock attacks increase in frequency. Despite documented attacks in many areas, such as the Gush Etzion Road and Route 60 in the Binyamin Regional Council as examples, IDF Central District Commander Major-General Nitzan Chen continues to tie the hands of soldiers operating in those areas. Chen’s appointment was met with audible objections as he is not viewed as an ally of the yishuvim. In a recent appearance by settlement leaders and Chen before a Knesset committee, the senior officer refused to appear simultaneously with the settlement leaders, only agreeing to enter the room after they left. He explained his actions, that he did not care to hear more of their insults.

The situation continues to deteriorate according to data released by the ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) yet the army’s commander of all the areas throughout Yehuda and Shomron happens to be unsympathetic and the residents feel that their safety is being compromised and abandoned due to a political agenda.

The photo depicts a fake bomb that was placed on a roadway near Yishuv Shilo on Wednesday night, the eve of 28 Sivan 5773. In this case, B’chasdei Hashem there was no loss of life as a gas cylinder was attached to it. This is not a rare occurrence, yet in too many instances, Jews traveling these roadways are left to fend for themselves as the IDF presence has been significantly reduced and even when soldiers are on hand, they are ordered to do little or nothing.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photo: Hatzalah Yosh)