IDF Chief Warns of Budget Shortfall Amid Rising West Bank Tensions and Holiday Security Measures

IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir announced during a multi-front situation assessment that due to escalating tensions in the West Bank and the upcoming holiday period, he has ordered an increase in readiness by deploying an additional regular division headquarters to strengthen forces in the area. He emphasized the need for immediate activation of units and battalions to reinforce the region. Zamir stated that Israel remains on high alert given the multi-front volatility and assured that there will be no operational force reductions or downgrades ahead of the holidays.

In a rare public criticism, Zamir condemned the Finance Ministry, highlighting the challenge of operating with an "empty treasury" amid ongoing budget battles. He stressed that this financial situation undermines the IDF's preparedness at a time when soldiers are already stretched across multiple fronts.