JERUSALEM, March 10 (Xinhuanet) -- A four-day general closure will be imposed in the Palestinian territories from Saturday night to Wednesday, Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz said on Friday after a security assessment at his Tel Aviv headquarters.

    Given Purim holiday and the March 28 election, Mofaz ordered the Israel Defense Forces and security establishments to intensify military actions in thwarting terror and attempts by Palestinian militants to launch attacks in Israel.

    Mofaz also asked the army and police to beef up their presence on roads, highways and major city centers during this sensitive period.

    Meanwhile, Mofaz will conduct a daily security assessment to decide whether the Karni goods crossing on northern Gaza border will remain open.

    The crossing was re-opened for business on Friday, but only goods inbound for the Gaza Strip, which are used in humanitarian assistance for the Palestinians living there, is permitted to pass through, according to security officials.

    Because of the ongoing threats by terrorists to launch attacks at the crossing, the situation will be examined on a daily basis, they said.

    Purim is one of the most joyous and fun holidays on the Jewish calendar. It commemorates a time when the Jewish people living in Persia were saved from extermination. Enditem