Israel to Construct Barrier along Egyptian Border. (BBC)
In order to keep out illegal immigrants and militants, Israel has approved plans to build a barrier along its border with Egypt. The border will be built on the edge of the Gaza strip and near the Red Sea city of Eilat. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says refugees will still be allowed entry into the country on humanitarian grounds. Thousands of immigrants find their way into Israel from Egypt. Police estimate between 100-200 illegal immigrants cross into Israel every week.
Egypt’s security agencies have raised concerns about Israel not informing them about their intentions to build a barrier. The government however says they will not get in the way as long as the barrier is built on Israeli soil. Egypt is also building an underground barrier along its border with Gaza to prevent the smuggling of weapons through tunnels.