IDF Activates Elite 98th Division Command in West Bank Amid Rising Tensions

The Israeli military's Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, has ordered the activation of the elite 98th Division command in the occupied West Bank, assigning it responsibility for areas in the southern West Bank, including the Hebron region. This move, described by Israeli reports as exceptional and not seen in years, follows a car-ramming attack near the Beit Ur checkpoint on Route 443, west of Ramallah. The attack resulted in the death of 29-year-old Mahmoud Mohammed Mahmoud Suleiman by Israeli forces and seriously injured reserve soldier Neriah Laiter, son of the Israeli Ambassador to Washington, Yehiel Laiter.

The military stated the decision was based on a situation assessment and the Chief of Staff's directives, aimed at enhancing command and control, and boosting defensive and offensive capabilities in Judea and Samaria. The activation is also intended to strengthen security during a tense period, with the army conducting ongoing assessments of developments.

According to Israeli media, the 98th Division will oversee the southern West Bank, including the Judea and Etzion brigades, while the West Bank Division will continue to manage other areas, distributing the command burden. This decision was reportedly in the works before the recent attack, with Zamir having previously asked the 98th Division to prepare for potential West Bank responsibilities due to concerns about a single division managing extensive operations.

Israeli security agencies anticipate increased tensions in the West Bank due to the upcoming Jewish Sukkot holiday, the olive harvest season, and approaching Israeli elections. The military plans to increase troop presence, particularly on main roads and near settlements, to prevent further attacks, including what they term "simulation operations" by individuals.

Reports also suggest that Hamas faces significant challenges in establishing armed cells in the West Bank, with efforts by Hamas official Zaher Jabarin to direct operations reportedly being thwarted. The reports claim Hamas and Islamic Jihad have weakened capabilities in Jenin, Nur al-Shams, and Tulkarm following Israeli military operations. Internal Israeli surveys reportedly indicate declining support for attacks due to fear of Israeli retaliation.

Regarding the Beit Ur incident, Israeli security assessments suggest Suleiman acted alone and that the attack was premeditated. He allegedly used a stolen Israeli license plate to avoid suspicion. Suleiman was not previously known to security forces, had not applied for a work permit, and was not supposed to be within the Green Line. Investigations involving his family are ongoing.