IDF Bolsters West Bank Forces Amid Fears of New Attack Wave

Following a recent attack near the Makabim checkpoint, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are increasing their troop presence and readiness in Judea and Samaria, anticipating further assaults. The Central Command fears the incident could inspire copycat attacks in other areas, according to the newspaper Maariv. The attack, which occurred the previous day, seriously injured IDF reservist Neria Leiter.

In response, the Central Command has heightened unit preparedness and conducted drills for various emergency scenarios. Major General Avi Balut, commander of the Central Command, stated that operational plans have been developed and practiced, incorporating lessons from recent conflicts. "We are prepared not for war tomorrow, but for war today," Balut emphasized, adding that the army aims to maintain the initiative and neutralize threats early.

The 98th Division is being deployed to bolster security in Judea and the Gush Etzion region. The decision, made by the Chief of Staff, aims to improve coordination of defensive and counter-terrorism operations, especially with the upcoming holiday period. The division's staff is expected to complete its deployment and assume command of brigades in the area soon. Preparations for the 98th Division's operations in Judea and Samaria began months ago, with soldiers training alongside the "Judea and Samaria" division and adapting combat experience from other fronts.

Recent weeks have seen extensive training exercises for the Central Command, with senior officers analyzing combat experience from the northern front. Dozens of commanders from regular and reserve units practiced emergency scenarios and inter-agency cooperation with the Shin Bet and border police. The IDF reported apprehending approximately 1,500 wanted individuals in Judea and Samaria over the past five months, with about 320 arrests in September. Security forces conducted roughly 10,000 counter-terrorism operations in the region during the same period.

The Central Command stressed that counter-terrorism efforts are ongoing and units remain on high alert. Simultaneously, the command aims to ensure the normal lives of residents during the Sukkot and Chol HaMoed holidays, balancing security with planned events.