Police lift security alert in Jerusalem, return to regular patrol

Police patrols return to regular activity after alert issued earlier in the day.

By DANIEL K. EISENBUD
Police at a security barricade in the Old City of Jerusalem (photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)
Police at a security barricade in the Old City of Jerusalem
(photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)
Police on Tuesday night lifted a general city-wide security alert issued earlier in the day in Jerusalem, after requesting that the public be aware of their immediate surroundings, while carrying on with their normal activities.
Police said patrols had returned to regular activity.
While no specific threat was cited, Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said over 3,500 police officers from an array of units were patrolling the capital.
“There is a general security alert,” said Rosenfeld shortly after police issued the statement. “Police units have heightened security in and around Jerusalem, including at malls, bus and train stations, with an emphasis on the Old City.”
“There are no special instructions for residents, who should remain calm, alert, and continue their routines as normal,” he added.
The warning comes after police finalized security preparations throughout the city for the High Holidays, beginning with the eve of Rosh Hashana on Sunday.
“Police have completed security assessments for the forthcoming New Year and Jewish festivals,” said Rosenfeld, noting that extra officers will be on hand in the Old City, as thousands of Jewish visitors enter the area for the holidays.
“Border Police, special patrol and undercover units will focus on security in all public areas, with a main emphasis on the first days of the Jewish festival to ensure all visitors are safe at all times, and will respond to any incident on any level immediately,” he added.