Israel’s Security Cabinet voted unanimously to increase penalties against those who throw rocks, Molotov cocktails, or other projectiles, as well as to allow police to use more force against rock-throwers.
Israel’s Security Cabinet has authorized tougher measures against rock-throwing after a spike in such attacks, including one that killed a 64-year-old man driving home from Rosh Hashana dinner with his daughters. The cabinet also authorized the use of live fire in limited circumstances against rock-throwers.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement announcing the following changes to Israel’s approach to the throwing of rocks, Molotov cocktails, and other projectiles:
- Police are authorized to use live fire, not only when their lives are in danger, but when others lives’ are in danger;
- Adult rock-throwers will receive a minimum sentence of 4 years in prison;
- Imprisonment and fines will be increased on minors aged 14-17 who throw rocks and on their parents, and imprisoned minors will lose their welfare benefits; and
- Minimum fines on minors over age 12 and bonds on minors under age 12 will be considered.
Israeli law does not hold children under age 12 accountable for crimes.
Palestinians attack Israeli border police on the Temple Mount. (AP/Mahmoud Illean)
“We intend to change the norm that has become established, that the state of Israel allows these deadly and murderous objects to be thrown without response and without being thwarted,” the statement read.
The Prime Minister added, “I would like to add a word about the Temple Mount: We are maintaining the status quo…it is those who bring pipebombs and explosives into the mosques who are changing the status quo.
“Of course, we will act to uphold law and order, and quiet. We are saying this to all of our neighbors and we are also calling on the Palestinian Authority to stop the wild incitement.”
Israel has suffered a spate of attacks involving Palestinians throwing rocks and firebombs at Jewish targets during the High Holidays. On such attack, on the first night of Rosh Hashana, caused 64-year-old Alexander Levlovitz to lose control of his car, killing him and lightly injuring his two daughters.
By: Sara Abramowicz, United with Israel
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