Housing Minister Uri Ariel
Housing Minister Uri ArielFlash 90

As the rocket fire from Gaza continues amid the IDF’s Operation Protective Edge, Housing Minister Uri Ariel (Jewish Home) on Tuesday issued a call to Israelis living in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria to invite residents of southern Israel to their homes.

Writing on Facebook, Ariel referred to the IDF’s operation and said, "The goal should be clear: to eradicate terrorism. Those who come to kill you - kill them first."

"Our forces have started hitting the terrorists, as they should,” he continued. “The goal should be clear: eradicate the terrorism emanating from Gaza. It’s inconceivable that Israeli citizens will have to sit in shelters every time Hamas feels like it.”

Ariel then issued the call on Israelis to open their homes to residents of the south.

"I call on the residents of Jerusalem and Judea and Samaria to open the doors of their homes to our brothers from the south and host families,” he wrote, adding, “The people of Israel are strong and sturdy and with G-d’s help we will win.”

Israelis wishing to host families from the south may coordinate this by calling: 1-800-202-203.