News Brief

(IsraelNN.com) Against his advisors’ recommendations, President Shimon Peres lit the fourth light of the Chanukah menorah on Wednesday night together with Sderot’s children at a community center of the rocket-ravaged town. “In Gaza, they light missiles. In Sderot, we light candles,” Peres addressed the residents. “From the moment that the missile attacks on Israel will cease, there will be quiet in Gaza and the border crossings will open. The sole responsibility to the situation in Gaza clearly rests on the shoulders of the Hamas,” the President added.

Earlier Wednesday afternoon, Peres participated in the inauguration of a new production line at the Osem Plant, located in Sderot’s industrial park. “I am envious of you for your endurance, on your bravery, and your contribution to strengthen Israeli industry and our ability to carry on,” Peres stated while cutting the ribbon.

Peres also stated at the candle lighting ceremony before Sderot’s children that he agrees with Defense Minister Ehud Barak’s sentiments that it is unnecessary to inform the enemy when Israel will respond. “The IDF and its commanders are concerned for your children as if they were their own children. It will act with a responsible and effective response. From here, I call to end unnecessary talk – Let the IDF act and to decide the timing and breadth of the response,” the President added.