A general closure will be implemented in the Judea and Samaria region for the duration of Israel's Remembrance Day and Independence Day. The closure was ordered by Minister of Defense Ehud Barak, following situation assessments adopted by the defense establishment. It began on Saturday night and will be lifted on Tuesday, April 20, at 23:59, in accordance with security assessments.
The closure means that Palestinian Authority Arabs cannot cross into Israel's sovereign territory, nor can they enter Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. Other motion is not restricted and life within the PA goes on undisturbed.
Despite the closure, PA residents in need of medical attention will be permitted to pass into Israel for care. The passage of humanitarian aid as well as doctors, medical personnel, lawyers, religious workers and additional professional groups will be authorized by the Civil Administration.
The passage of journalists will also be permitted. They are reminded to ensure that their GPO credentials, passports and visas are valid. Media personnel with Israeli or dual citizenship are required to sign release forms prior to visiting the areas designated as “A areas” (under complete PA control) and are encouraged to coordinate their passage in advance with the IDF Spokesperson's News Desk.