Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Israeli authorities foil Independence Day attack /update 1

Event

On Wednesday, April 18, Israeli authorities announced they had thwarted a potential attack to be carried out on Israel's Independence Day (being celebrated on April 19). Security forces at a checkpoint in Reihan, located in the north of the West Bank, reportedly found homemade explosive devices hidden in a Palestinian truck attempting to cross the border in to Israel; the driver was subsequently arrested. Increased security measures during Independence Day celebrations in Israel are to be expected.

Context

The Israeli army announced on April 15 that major travel restrictions would be imposed on the borders of the West Bank as well as the Gaza Strip April 16-19 to minimize the risk of security incidents during Israel's 70th anniversary celebrations. During this period, Palestinian nationals are reportedly prohibited from entering and exiting the West Bank, except for "humanitarian, medical, and special cases."

This comes amid weeks of demonstrations by Palestinians along the border between the Gaza Strip and Israeli territory, during which time dozens of Palestinians have been killed by Israeli security forces. These demonstrations are scheduled to continue until May 15. An Israeli general had warned in late March that the army would open fire on anyone who "dangerously" approached the "no-go" zone along the Israeli border. 

Advice

Individuals present in Israel and the Palestinian Territories are advised to avoid all protests or other public gatherings due to the high risk of violence and to monitor developments in the situation. Due to the underlying terrorist threat, travelers in Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.