Israel toughens penalties for rock- and firebomb- throwers

The security cabinet unanimously approved Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s proposals to expand open-fire orders for security forces – not only when their own, but any, lives are in danger. Also approved were minimum sentences of four years jail for adults who throw firebombs, rocks or other projectiles, and increased minimum fines for minors and their parents. National security payments will be suspended for jailed minors. The cabinet decision ended with a statement by the prime minister: We are maintaining the status quo. The remarks about our intention to upset the status quo at Islamic holy places are utter nonsense. The status quo is being changed by those who bring pipe bombs and explosives into mosques.