Israel begins nationwide distribution of gas masks to combat possible chemical attack

Israel begins distributing gas masks to citizens

JERUSALEM — Israel has begun distributing new gas masks to its 7 million citizens to offer protection against a possible chemical attack.

Israel’s postal service is handing out the equipment. It says the process will take about three years.

Distribution began Sunday. The Israeli military says it is routine and not in response to a specific threat. Israel believes a chemical attack could potentially come from Syria or Iran.

Israel has distributed gas masks and kits with antidotes in the past, beginning with the first Gulf War in 1991. Three years ago, Israel recalled masks after some components passed their expiration date.