Last update - 00:00 19/12/2007
MKs slam gov't declaration of 'special situation' in Sderot
By Shahar Ilan, Haaretz Correspondent
Numerous MKs sharply criticized the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee's decision Wednesday to approve the extension of the "special situation" declared in Sderot and other communities along the border with the Gaza Strip.
Defense Minister Ehud Barak decided last week to seek cabinet approval to extend the declaration, due to the ongoing Qassam rocket fire into the southern Israel communities from the Gaza Strip.
The declaration essentially transfers emergency authority from the state to the army. Therefore, the IDF Southern Command can determine whether or not schools will remain open, and the Home Front can order factories containing dangerous materials to close their doors.
MK Yuval Steinitz (Likud) said that the transfer of command over the rocket-weary communities from the hands of the state over to the military was a "blow to democracy," and that the Knesset committee cannot serve as a "rubber stamp."
MK Limor Livnat (Likud) asked why this decision was necessary, and inquired in what ways the Israel Defense Forces had invoked the authority granted under the "special situation" declaration during the past month. MK Yisrael Hasson (Yisrael Beiteinu) also criticized the government's decision.
Defense Ministry Director-General Pinchas Bucharis, however, said the declaration had great significance because of the moral support if gives to the residents of Sderot and other communities.
The "special situation" was initially declared in May by then defense minister Amir Peretz, but the order expired approximately one month ago.
Residents affected by the special situation are eligible to be compensated for damages suffered as a result of the declaration.
The government approved Barak's recommendation that the declaration be extended in a vote carried out by telephone last Friday. The proposal was then brought before the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee for its approval.
Cabinet approves formation of national emergency authority
Meanwhile, the security cabinet approved Wednesday the establishment of a national emergency authority.
The authority will operate under the auspices of the Defense Ministry, and will be responsible for managing and coordinating between all rescue services and relevant government agencies, such as health care services, fire departments, and the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command.
The decision to create a single governmental body to handle the home front during national emergencies was made approximately one year ago, despite the objections of the Public Security Ministry and the National Security Council.
These organizations withdrew most of their objections following additional meetings held in recent days.
The authority will be headed by IDF Brigadier General (res.) Ze'ev Zuk-Rom, who will report to Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai. The authority is expected to begin operating next month.
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