
The IDF authorized the train’s return to Sderot in early February

Last updated: January 17, 2025 | 3:46 p.m
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The IDF will allow the operation of the Ashkelon-Sderot railway for passenger traffic from February 1 in accordance with the operational assessment and in coordination with the Israeli Railways.
The IDF stated that the opening of the railway line was made possible by intensive activities by the IDF and the Ministry of Defense in the surrounding area and in the Gaza Strip. Preparations for the opening also integrated technological capabilities, collection capacities and necessary operational activities to create a protective layer.
It was also reported that the Ministry of Transport and Israel Railways are preparing to resume traffic. In the coming days, the train schedule will be published through the media, on the Israel Railways website and in the app.
Train service between Ashkelon and Sderot was completely stopped on October 7 and there were fights over the cessation from the beginning of 2024. The “Atid Le’Otef” movement, which led the fight with the authorities in the Gaza Envelope and Sapir College, said: “There is still a lot of work ahead of us – first of all, we must ensure that they stop protecting.” We are a substitute for security and the terrorist threat is fundamentally cut off. We will not return to the illusion of 6/10. We have also lived in the concept that protection means safety must ensure that trips are frequent and continuous, including late evenings, Fridays and evenings, to enable normal life in Otef. Our fight resulted in the train being put back into service earlier than the original plan, which called for 800 million shekels of insurance and the closure of the train for 5 years.”
MK Shalom Danino (Likud), who pushed the issue in the Foreign Affairs and Security Committee, said: “Welcome the decision and the measures that preceded its implementation.” The train is vital to life in the Negev and a central means of accessibility necessary for life in the periphery.”
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