IDF Spokesperson: Engineering Work on the Israel-Egypt Border

2 May 2001

The IDF carried out last night operational activities near the Israel-Egypt
border after three explosive charges were detonated and over twenty grenades
were thrown towards the IDF force that was on routine operational activities
in the area.

During the activity twenty grenades were thrown and heavy fire was opened
towards the force.

It must be emphasized that the engineering operations were carried out in
the "Pink" area that according to the Oslo agreements is defined as an area
of military installation of which Israel has full security and civilian
responsibility.

The operation was carried out because of an essential security need, to
protect the patrolling soldiers on the Israel-Egypt border, following an
increase in the number of violent events in the area and deterioration in
their characteristics.