As part of the preparations by the Southern District Police and the IDF for the ‘South in the Heart’ events in the Sderot and Gaza Envelope area, which will commence on January 30, 2026, police and IDF forces have been reinforced and will be deployed during the event days.
Forces will be deployed on relevant routes and areas to maintain public order at the main focal points in the northern Negev sector, including Road 232, Re’im parking lot, Tel Gama junction, Ruhama, and nature reserves.
There is a prohibition for hikers to cross fences, travel on unmarked dirt roads, and enter fenced and signposted areas.
Suspicious Objects
If a suspicious object is noticed, including weapons, one must move away and keep onlookers away, dial 100, and summon police forces. Israel Police sappers are prepared to handle any such report with their exclusive professionalism.
We call on the public to obey the instructions of the police officers, soldiers, security forces, and ushers, and to maintain law and order for the safety and well-being of all event participants.
We remind you that the defense time available to you in the Gaza Envelope area is 15 seconds. If you can reach a standard protected space, do so safely. If you are outdoors or traveling in a vehicle, stop at the side, lie on the ground, and protect your head with your hands. In an event or a crowded place, remain seated and protect your head with your hands to avoid injury due to crowding. To receive alerts and stay updated even when in an open area, download the Home Front Command application.
For full defense instructions: https://www.oref.org.il/heb/articles/info/iron-swords/1100