Passover Shut Down: Israel closes border with Egypt over 'imminent' terrorist threat ahead of Holy holiday

By Abigail James (CALIFORNIA NETWORK)
4/10/2017 (2 years ago)
Catholic Online (https://www.catholic.org)

Israel has temporarily closed the Taba border with Egypt following two devastating bombing on Christian churches during Palm Sunday ceremonies.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - According to Israel's anti-terrorism office, a potential terrorist attack is highly suspected in the Sinai Peninsula, a popular tourist destination.

The intelligence reports gravely urged all Israeli's to return home from Egypt and to cancel any of their traveling plans just before the start of the Passover holiday

The Israeli government's statement claims the intelligence information shows "increased activity by Islamic State militants in Sinai, according to the Associated Press. Since the Islamic State is losing coverage in Iraq and Syria, they believe there is a renew motivation to carry out terror attacks in different arenas at this time."

This can be seen in the many recent terror attacks in Egypt, including the last one that left dozens of Christian worshippers dead.

Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu sent his "condolences to the families of those who were murdered in yesterday's terrorist attacks in Egypt," wishing the wounded a quick and full recovery.

Although Israel often issues travel recommendations based on their intelligence reports on terrorist activity, the urgency and nature of their most recent call is rare. The Taba border is not commonly shut down.

"The world must unite and fight terrorism everywhere," exclaimed Netanyahu.

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