“The first issue that we will deal with today – and it will be presented by Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz, IDF Chief-of-Staff Lt.-Gen. Dan Halutz and ISA Director Yuval Diskin – is the deteriorating security situation and acts of terrorism, which to my regret, are increasing.  Last week, I instructed the security establishment to take all measures, without restrictions, in order to stop the wave of terrorism and to strike at the terrorist organizations and the terrorists.  This activity is ongoing and, to my regret, terrorist actions are continuing.

I met this morning with senior security establishment officials and I reiterated my instructions that there is no restriction on our activities to halt the attacks at communities both inside and outside the Gaza Strip.  They described the precise situation and the steps being taken.  We do not – in any way – intend to allow this situation.  We are greatly interested in reaching a diplomatic settlement but it is totally clear that this is impossible while such terrorism runs amok along our borders.

The second issue that we will deal with is very important.  While it may appear less important in light of the security situation, the struggle against road accidents, which claim so many lives, is a very important issue.  Today, we will submit a plan for the war on road accidents, which has been prepared by the Sheinan Committee).  We will be briefed by Transportation Minister Meir Shetrit and “Or Yarok” Director Avi Naor.    You have before you the report with 1.2 million signatures – including those of 50 local authority chairmen – on it in support of a national multi-year plan.  I see this plan as being very important, I support it and I intend to implement.