West Bank, Gaza Sealed Off By Israel

Israel sealed off the West Bank and Gaza Strip on Tuesday amid warnings of possible suicide attacks, blocking tens of thousands of Palestinians from their jobs for the first time since the Palestinian elections.

The restrictions, which cut off many households from their only source of income, came during the Islamic month of Ramadan, when many West Bank residents normally visit mosques in Jerusalem.

Deputy Defense Minister Ori Orr acknowledged the hardship caused to the Palestinians, but said attacks had to be prevented at any cost.

Such border closings have been a constant source of humiliation and hardship for Palestinians, and the action was a firm reminder of the persistenceof deep suspicions and the overwhelming power of the Israelis.