Israeli military raises alert level days ahead of Passover holiday

Just days before the start of the Jewish Passover festival, Israel’s military has raised the alert level across the country following a situation assessment by Chief of General Staff Eyal Zamir, according to the armed forces.

The army’s presence in various parts of Israel will also be increased. Passover, one of the most important Jewish festivals, begins this year on Saturday evening and ends on April 20.

In Israel, the festival coincides with two weeks of school holidays. Many Israelis take time off and visit family and friends across the country.

Zamir emphasized the importance of maintaining “readiness and vigilance” and further strengthening security measures.

Passover commemorates the exodus of the people of Israel from Egypt and their liberation from slavery. It is also referred to as the Festival of Freedom. Accordingly, in the lead-up to Passover, the Israeli public is reminded even more urgently of the plight of hostages still held by Islamist groups in the Gaza Strip.

Currently, 59 hostages remain in the hands of the Islamists, of whom only 24 men are believed to still be alive.