Israeli Minister Announces Security Fence Plans Along Jordan Border
Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen has revealed plans to accelerate the construction of a security fence along the border with Jordan, citing recent security incidents as a catalyst for this decision. The announcement follows a shooting attack that left two Israeli soldiers wounded, reportedly involving gunmen who infiltrated from Jordanian territory. Cohen emphasized the necessity of the fence, stating that it is 'not an option, but a must' due to ongoing infiltration operations and the smuggling of illegal weapons.
The proposed fence will mirror the security measures implemented along the border with Egypt, which aimed to curb similar issues of smuggling and infiltration. The recent confrontation occurred south of the Dead Sea, resulting in the deaths of the attackers and injuries to the Israeli soldiers, prompting the Israeli army to increase patrols and security measures in the area.
In response to the allegations of Jordanian military involvement, the Jordanian army has firmly denied any claims that its personnel crossed into Israeli territory, calling the reports spread by Israeli media 'completely untrue.' This denial comes on the heels of previous tensions, including an incident last September where three Israelis were killed by a Jordanian driver at the Karameh crossing. Following that incident, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed intentions to construct a security fence inspired by the success of the Egyptian border barrier. Reports from Israel Hayom indicated that preparations for the fence, including trench digging, have already commenced as part of an urgent security response.
