Israel Ramps Up Security at Rachel's Tomb amid Terror Surge

JERUSALEM, Israel -- Thousands of Jewish worshippers gathered at Rachel's Tomb near Bethlehem Friday and many more are expected throughout the weekend to mark the anniversary of the biblical matriarch's death.

Israeli authorities will deploy hundreds of extra police and security forces to the site in view of the surge in attacks by Palestinian terrorists. The rise in attacks began on the eve of the Jewish New Year and continued throughout the fall holidays and afterward.

Troops placed a concrete barrier near Rachel's Tomb on Thursday to provide additional protection ahead of the weekend pilgrimage.

Israel's Security Cabinet approved more stringent measures to protect its citizens against the recent surge in terror attacks.