IDF Divides West Bank Command Amid Rising Security Concerns
The Israeli military chief of staff has ordered a significant restructuring of military command in the West Bank, dividing the Judea and Samaria (IO) theater into three separate command centers. This decision follows a severe car-ramming attack near the Benyamin region's Blim checkpoint on Highway 443, where a soldier was critically injured. The attacker was quickly neutralized by forces at the scene. In response, Israeli forces, including the Benjamin Brigade and elite counter-terrorism units, raided the attacker's village, Beit Ur al-Tahta, overnight. The operation involved searching and mapping over 70 locations, including the assailant's home.
The new command structure aims to better manage the vast West Bank area, which is three times the size of the Gaza Strip and home to approximately 600,000 civilians. Under the reorganization, the Etzion and Yehuda brigades will fall under the command of the elite Division 98. The northern Samaria region will remain under the existing IO Division, while the Jordan Valley and eastern border area will be managed by Division 96.
This structural change is driven by a confluence of operational challenges. These include the upcoming Jewish High Holy Days, increased settler activity, the approaching olive harvest season, the expansion of settlements, and a rise in lone-wolf attacks and nationalist crime. Division 98, previously held in reserve, will now provide enhanced defense and offensive capabilities.
Security officials report continuous, high-intensity counter-terrorism operations in the West Bank. In the past five months, around 1,500 wanted individuals have been arrested, with over 320 apprehended this month alone. Nearly 10,000 offensive operations have been conducted. Since January 2025, the IDF has maintained operational control over terrorist hubs in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur al-Shams. While there are no specific, immediate threats of further attacks, the military is proactively preparing to thwart any terrorist organizations and ensure civilian routine.