Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz has ordered new security measures along Israel's border with the Gaza Strip in an attempt to prevent Palestinian militant attacks on Israeli communities.
A defense ministry official said Friday that Israel plans to create a "no-man's land", which Palestinians would be prevented from entering, on the Gaza side of the border.
Mr. Mofaz also ordered better security checks at two crossing points between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Israel withdrew its last troops from the territory this week after a 38-year occupation.
After the pullout, Palestinian militants blasted an opening through a barrier on the border between southern Gaza and Egypt, prompting Israeli fears that more arms and militants would enter Gaza.
In another development Friday, thousands of Palestinians broke though security and poured into Egypt, amid Israeli concerns about authorities' failure to control the border.
Some information provided by AFP.