The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) imposed a closure Friday on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to prevent Palestinians from entering Israel during the Jewish New Year holiday.

Besides the closure, Israel's security forces also went on high alert to prevent terror attacks during the holiday of Rosh Hashana, which begins at sundown Friday, reported local daily Ha'aretz.

The closure is due to remain in place at least until Sunday night, when the holiday ends.

According to the report, thousands of Israeli security forces personnel were stationed in city centers, markets, malls, bus stations and other public places on Friday morning.

Police presence was also set to be beefed up around synagogues and cemeteries.

Permanent checkpoints will be manned and temporary ones will be set up, said Ha'aretz, adding extra police will also be deployed to deal with the expected traffic tie-ups.

Source: Xinhua