IDF Prepares 'Root Canal' Operation Against West Bank Terrorism
The Israeli military is preparing for a comprehensive operation, described as a "root canal," to combat terrorism in the West Bank. This comes despite current low terror levels, the lowest since 2011, attributed to combined efforts by the IDF's Judea and Samaria Division, Shin Bet, police, and Border Police. Security officials warn that Hamas command centers in Turkey, Gaza, Iran, Qatar, Lebanon, and other locations may attempt to advance terror plots against Israelis and IDF soldiers, particularly ahead of the upcoming holidays. In response, the Judea and Samaria Division has conducted extensive preemptive operations targeting both suspected terrorists and incitement hubs to minimize terror potential.
The IDF reportedly enjoys broad operational freedom in the West Bank, having established a significant presence in Samaria refugee camps with supporting infrastructure. New outposts are also being constructed to enhance control. The military has also carried out extensive ground and air counter-terrorism operations, neutralizing five militants in the past week.
However, a growing concern is the increasing friction between settlers and Palestinians. Security sources attribute this trend partly to a significant rise in new settlements, isolated farms, and unauthorized outposts. This reality necessitates a reassessment of security strategies for these communities to prevent them from being vulnerable to hostile elements. Despite these challenges, security coordination with Palestinian Authority security mechanisms is maintained, though unusual incidents require constant monitoring.
Further complicating the security landscape is the large amount of weaponry held by the Palestinian Authority and ongoing arms smuggling from the Jordan border. An extreme scenario, termed "barrel reversal," where the PA could descend into succession struggles and turn its weapons on Israeli forces and civilians, has prompted the political echelon to demand increased readiness.
IDF assessments for heightened activity in the West Bank are influenced by several factors: Israeli elections, Palestinian Authority elections, the Jewish High Holidays (a period of increased Israeli tourism and potential friction with Palestinians), a rise in lone-wolf attacks, significant friction events that could escalate into spontaneous terror, and escalating nationalist crime garnering international media attention. Defense Minister Israel Katz may push the IDF to capture additional refugee camps and conduct large-scale operations, especially in Samaria, to curb terrorism.
