Security cabinet decides to reissue gas masks

       The security cabinet has decided to redistribute gas mask kits to the public. A Kol Yisrael reporter says the distribution of the kits should begin in coming months. Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai, who initiated the move, told Kol Yisrael the distribution is a routine move following the checking and upgrading of the kits. The security cabinet Wednesday morning approved a Home Front Command exercise scheduled for next week, that will examine the emergency preparedness of the Home Front, including government ministries. Vilnai was also asked about reports that Damascus has raised its level of alert for a possible large-scale Israeli attack on Syria and Hezbollah. The London-based Al-Quds al-Arabi newspaper had reported that the Syrian army has been conducting maneuvers and has even drafted some reserve units. The paper cited senior Syrian sources as saying the preprations were prompted by recent declarations by senior Israeli officials which were perceived to be efforts to prepare the public for a war with Syria. Vilnai said he was unaware of the report.(21,53)