Israel heightens security ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations

Extra police have been drafted in to ensure tonight’s New Year celebrations in Israel go off safely.

Hundreds of more officers will be deployed across the country, with a focus on preventing terrorist attacks and to crack down on drink-driving.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said: “Police security assessments have been completed for New Year’s Eve, including increased operations in all major cities and areas where celebrations will be taking place across the country.

“Border Police, undercover, Special Patrol and helicopter units will patrol the different areas to closely monitor, prevent and, if necessary, respond to any security-related incidents, while at the same time keeping an eye on all illegal drinking and driving in order to make sure the roads are safe.”

Although no intelligence has been gathered about any specific threats, Rosenfeld insisted nothing was being left to chance. He added: “Police will work to eliminate all threats to ensure that all revelers can celebrate safely.”