The Jerusalem Post   
Mar 17, 2008 18:19 | Updated Mar 17, 2008 19:36

Israel beefs up security ahead of Purim

Police will deploy thousands of officers throughout the country this weekend as a precautionary measure during Purim, out of fears that Hizbullah may try to carry out a revenge attack for the assassination of one of its top masterminds, a police spokesman said Monday.

Hizbullah has blamed Israel for the Feb. 12 car bombing in Syria that killed Imad Mughniyeh, a Hizbullah leader suspected of masterminding a series of deadly attacks against US and Jєωιѕн targets. Israel has denied the charge.

Officials in Jerusalem fear that Hizbullah will try to strike at the end of the traditional 40-day mourning period, which coincides with Purim, a time when schools are closed and many Israeli families attend outdoor celebrations.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said thousands of officers and volunteers will guard holiday celebrations and be stationed at bus stations and malls throughout the country. He also said Israel would likely impose a closure on the West Bank, preventing Palestinians from entering the country. Israel often imposes closures during holidays and other times of high alert.