Israel Builds Wall Along Gaza Strip Border to Protect Nearby Towns

The Israeli authorities have begun constructing a concrete barrier along the border with the Gaza Strip to strengthen the security of settlements closest to the enclave. This was reported on Thursday by the press service of the Israel Defense Forces, according to TASS.

On Wednesday, a ceremony took place marking the laying of the first stone of the future wall, attended by representatives of the army leadership, the Ministry of Defense, and local authorities. The wall, stretching 4.6 kilometers, will be erected along two major highways that run near the border with the Palestinian enclave, the press service noted.

In addition to the main barrier, cycling paths will be created in the construction area for the convenience of local residents. The project has been named “Secure Road.” Extensive construction will take place in the coming months and is expected to be completed this summer. The cost of the project has not been disclosed.

The purpose of the Secure Road is to ensure that all traffic is protected from threats from the Gaza Strip in both normal and emergency situations, said Israeli Army Commander for Gaza, Lieutenant Colonel Avi Rosenfeld.

As reported by The Times of Israel, the main goal of this barrier is to protect Israeli settlements and roads adjacent to the Gaza Strip from anti-tank missiles fired by Palestinian militants during periods of escalation. The main section of the wall will stretch along Highway 34, from Yad Mordechai to the city of Sderot in the south of the country.