The IDF said it is responding to threats on the southern border by showing civilians that "defense mechanisms are operating flawlessly” – and acting by building fences around endangered communities.

"Since the moment tensions began in Egypt and later in Sinai we understood threats are more concrete," said Commander of Territorial Defense in the Gaza Division, Lt. Col. Ilan Dayan.

"During emergencies and threats, it is important to show civilians that defense mechanisms are operating flawlessly. We are extremely prepared on all fronts.” he added.

The “strength” is being put into action by building ”inductive” fences around several communities in the south, where more soldiers will be stationed.

The government has ordered a speed-up to the “Hourglass” project," a fence along the Israeli-Egyptian border, where Bedouin and other Arab terrorists have staked out territory that has been left almost as no-man’s land since the downfall of Hosni Mubarak.

In Judea and Samaria, where bands of Arabs have resumed daily rock-throwing terror against Jewish motorists and passengers, the IDF has decided   to “implement several trust-building measures during this season, including providing visitor permits for Christian Palestinians from the Judea and Samaria Region to visit Israel during the entire season, without limitations on age.”

The relaxation of security will continue until January 20, according to the IDF, and is taken “in order to improve Palestinian quality of life.” In addition, approximately 400 permits will be issued to Christian Arabs from Judea and Samaria to travel abroad via Ben Gurion Airport.

In Judea, Samaria and Gaza, 500 visitor permits will be distributed to allow families to travel throughout the region in order to participate in religious ceremonies. An additional 200 permits will be provided for Christians from Arab countries to visit Judea and Samaria Region during the holidays.