RAMALLAH: Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz has urged the Palestinians to reject violence during Ramadan, telling them that Israel “cannot tolerate” a surge in terror attacks that it will oppose with “might and with determination.”

His message has been described as a “wise step” by an analyst, as Israeli political leaders warn against complacency in security measures, anticipating further violence during Ramadan.

Gantz sent a clear video message to the Palestinian people on the evening of the first day of Ramadan, April 2, in which he called on them to stop all violence to enable Israeli authorities to grant them economic facilities and freedom of movement during the holy month.

His remarks came as Israeli defense and security forces made redoubled efforts to combat what they called the escalating wave of violence from the Palestinians in the West Bank or those who hold Israeli citizenship and live inside Israel.

Gantz’s efforts also coincided with Israeli political leaders’ calls for fierce confrontation.

“We have recently made progress with a series of measures, in coordination with the Palestinian Authority, intended to improve the quality of life and the economy in the (West Bank) area and the Gaza Strip,” the minister said.

“As the month of Ramadan begins, I would like to wish Ramadan Karim to all the Palestinians of the (West Bank) area and the Gaza Strip.

“Unfortunately, we are experiencing a difficult time of terrorist attacks on Israeli citizens — a situation which we cannot tolerate, and which we are opposing with might and with determination.”

He added: “We are currently examining which measures we may take, as Ramadan gets underway, to enable you to celebrate the holiday better while the preservation of security remains our top priority.”

Politicians have vowed to use the utmost force to suppress those involved in violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and even withdraw the permits of their family members, preventing them from entering Israel to work.

“We have recently made progress with a series of measures, in coordination with the Palestinian Authority, intended to improve the quality of life and the economy in the (West Bank) area and the Gaza Strip,” said Gantz.

“Our ability to advance those measures is now threatened by terrorism, and we will continue working on their promotion only if quiet returns and the security situation restabilises. We are eager for that to happen, and I am sure that most of the Palestinians desire it as well,” said the minister.

“In that spirit, I wish us all a tranquil time during the coming holy month and comfortable relaxation among our families.”