Even as the government issued new instructions Thursday to security forces that it claimed are “uncompromising,” the IDF Spokesman reminded Jews not to stray into areas of the Biblical heartland that are under Palestinian Authority (PA) control – for fear of being murdered.
The IDF Spokesman's Unit said that Jews who go on Sukkot holiday hikes in Judea and Samaria must be careful and follow security instructions, and make sure they do not mistakenly enter the areas under full PA control.
Entering these areas – known as Areas A in the Oslo Accords – is against the law, the Spokesman's Unit said.
"An order signed by the Head of Central Command forbids Israeli citizens' entry into areas A,” the Spokesman added. “We note that these areas are marked by a red sign that warns against danger to life.”
Hikers are also asked to be mindful of their safety when going near areas designated as IDF fire ranges. Citizens who wish to enter these areas must receive clearance in advance from the authorities.
"IDF forces are spread out at all times in the Judea and Samaria region and in the central traffic routes, in order to carry out their main mission – protecting residents of the area,” the Spokesman summed up.