"Israel" fears harvest of own seeds, Moghniyeh Mourning Triggers Panic

Source: Haaretz, 19-03-2008
Security forces are on high alert in 'Israel' and at 'Israeli' and Jewish (Zionist) institutions abroad before the end of the 40-day mourning period for Hizbullah chief Imad Moghniyeh, who was assassinated in Damascus last month. A full closure was imposed on the West Bank as of last night.
Hizbullah blames 'Israel' for the February 12 assassination, and Hizbullah has threatened revenge attacks in 'Israel'. The mourning period ends on Sunday. In the past, Islamic organizations have launched retribution attacks at the end of the mourning period.
'Israeli' military officials are particularly concerned about possible simultaneous attacks in 'Israel' and on 'Israeli' diplomatic offices and Jewish (Zionist) institutions abroad. Security at many 'Israeli' diplomatic missions has been tightened in response.
Security officials say that Hizbullah wants to "reset the balance of terror vis-a-vis 'Israel' to zero" in the wake of Moghniyeh's death, to deter 'Israel' from future attacks on Hizbullah's leaders. To do this, the organization would have to carry out a major attack that would draw international attention.
'Israel's' intelligence community has gained possession of fragments of information hinting at plans for a Hizbullah revenge attack in coordination with Iran and Syria. Although this intelligence is partial and unfocused, it was enough to send into high alert troops of the 'Israeli' Defense (War) Forces at the northern border.
After consulting with security officials, Defense (War) Minister Ehud Barak issued a total closure on the West Bank that went into effect at midnight last night and will remain in place until Sunday night. In addition to fears of an attempt to avenge Moghniyeh's death, Barak cited the large number of attacks and attempted attacks in recent years around the Purim holiday.
The 'Israel' Police are to go on heightened alert from tomorrow. On Monday, when schools reopen after the Purim vacation, the alert level is expected to return to normal levels.
National Police Commissioner David Cohen ordered the threat level raised to three, one below the highest level, with special attention given to places of entertainment and public gathering spots.