(Communicated by the IDF Spokespersons)
A coordination meeting took place yesterday, August 4, 2008, in order to strengthen security coordination between Palestinian and IDF security forces in the Judea and Samaria region. The meeting was held by the Commander of the Judea and Samaria Division, Brig. Gen. Noam Tibon, Head of Civil Administration, Brig. Gen. Yoav Mordechai and representatives of the Palestinian security forces.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the Palestinian security forces' activities in the area of Jenin and northern Samaria. The Palestinians expressed appreciation for having the ability to act independently as part of the recent campaign for improving public order in the region. The IDF Division Commander and the Head of the Civil Administration stated that such activity should continue in order to fight terror and crime within the Palestinian Authority.
In addition, during the meeting, the two sides discussed the continuation of the easing of restrictions recently implemented by the IDF, as part of Defense Ministry policy. The Palestinians expressed satisfaction at the steps taken and requested to continue to strengthen the Palestinian security forces.
During the meeting, which was conducted in a positive atmosphere, both sides agreed to hold additional such meetings in the future.