IDF Launches Major Drills in Eilat and Arava Regions

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will commence large-scale security drills in the Eilat and Arava regions on Monday, September 7, 2026. The exercises, led by the 80th Division, are designed to practice repelling sudden attacks and will involve intensive movement of security forces, military aircraft, and naval vessels starting immediately. The maneuvers will test the defense of settlements and Eilat, as well as the readiness of ground forces, the Air Force, and the Navy against threats from air, land, and sea. A key focus will be on inter-organizational cooperation with the Israel Police and Magen David Adom emergency services, alongside the coordinated actions of different military branches. These drills are part of the Operations Department's approved 2026 schedule, aiming to enhance combat readiness based on recent lessons learned. Similar exercises to test preparedness for complex, sudden threats were previously conducted on the Golan Heights.