The Security Cabinet on Wednesday turned down a request from Defense Minister Ehud Barak for a NIS 500 million allocation towards providing anti-rocket fortification for 4,700 homes in rocket range in the Greater Sderot Area.

Over recent months, 400 mini-shelters have been deployed near schools and public areas, with an additional scheduled for the future. The cabinet feels that the �migunit� units provide a solution for families seeking cover from rocket attacks, adding the situation is difficult but there is a multi-faceted approach towards addressing the rocket threat, not just fortification.

Public Security Minister Avi Dichter supported the cabinet�s decision, stating the Security Cabinet is well aware of the difficult situation and fortification represents only one aspect of addressing the Gaza-based attacks.

(Yechiel Spira � YWN Israel)