Israel Boosts Police Presence Near Schools for New Academic Year

Israel's Ministry of Transportation is implementing enhanced safety measures around educational institutions in preparation for the upcoming school year. A meeting held on Sunday, attended by the Ministry's Director-General Moshe Ben Zaken, representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Israel Police Traffic Division, the National Road Safety Authority, the National Public Transport Authority, and child safety organizations, focused on improving student safety.

Key discussion points included safe crossing and riding practices, the regulation of "weapon and go" zones (areas where parents can drop off or pick up children quickly), the operation of "Guardians of the Peace" patrols, and increased police presence and enforcement during school arrival and departure times. The National Public Transport Authority has also adjusted public transport schedules from summer vacation to the academic year timetable to meet anticipated demand.

Parents are urged to drop off and pick up students only in designated areas, avoiding double parking, blocking crosswalks, or stopping in locations that endanger children. They are also encouraged to practice safe routes to school with their children, ensure children under nine are accompanied by an adult when crossing roads, and verify that helmets are used for riding and seatbelts for all travel.

Director-General Ben Zaken stated, "The opening of the school year is much more than a return to routine. It is our responsibility to protect the children's lives and ensure they arrive at and return from school safely. Under Minister Regev's direction, we are preparing in advance and in cooperation with all parties to give parents the confidence to send their children to educational frameworks, from the way to school to the vicinity of the institution itself."