(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser)

On Thursday evening (24 September 2015), the Security Cabinet unanimously approved a series of decisions submitted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the framework of the fight against rock-throwing in Jerusalem.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said at the end of the meeting:

"A short time ago the Security Cabinet unanimously adopted a series of decisions in the framework of our fight against those who throw rocks and firebombs, and shoot fireworks.

First, we sharpened the open-fire orders. Until recently police would open fire only when their own lives were in danger. As of now, they will be permitted to open fire - and they will know that they have the right to open fire - when they face danger to any lives. Second, we decided to impose minimum sentences of four years' imprisonment for adults who throw firebombs, rocks or other Also, we will impose increased fines, and minimum fines on minors and their parents. These decisions will apply to all citizens and residents of Israel. We intend to change the norm that has become established him, that the state of Israel allows these deadly and murderous objects to be thrown without response and without being thwarted. This will change.

I would like to add a word about the Temple Mount: We are maintaining the status quo. We are not violating it. All remarks regarding the intention to harm the Islamic holy places are utter nonsense. It is not we who are changing the status quo; it is those who bring pipebombs and explosives into the mosques who are changing the status quo.

Of course, we will act to uphold law and order, and quiet. We are saying this to all of our neighbors and we are also calling on the Palestinian Authority to stop the wild incitement."

The Security Cabinet decided on an uncompromising fight against those who throw rocks, firebombs and fireworks that endanger human lives by means of:

* Sharpening open-fire orders for police 

A)   Approval for use of "Ruger" rifles;
B)   Detailing scenarios in which it will be justified to open fire in cases in which there is an immediate and concrete danger to police or civilians, and the relevant restrictions.

* Increasing punitive measures via legislation: Imposing minimum sentences at a 1/5 ratio of the maximum punishment (i.e. four years) that is likely to reach up to 20 years.

* Taking punitive steps against minors who throw rocks, firebombs and fireworks, and against their parents, including imprisonment and fines on minors aged 14-18 and their parents. Included in the foregoing is the revocation of support payments for imprisoned minors.

The possibility of imposing minimum fines on the parents of minors aged 12-14 and the imposition of one year bonds on the parents of minors under age 12, will be legally evaluated.