Security Agencies Clash Over Handling of Jewish Terror in West Bank

A recent incident in the Palestinian village of Jalud has exposed severe criticism regarding the coordination between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Israel Police, and the Shin Bet security agency in combating Jewish extremist terror in the West Bank. Security officials claim that far-right Jewish terror operatives are effectively dictating terms in the area, raising serious questions about systemic failures.

According to the report, the operational triangle involving the IDF, police, and Shin Bet is not functioning effectively, a problem that extends beyond counter-terrorism efforts against Jewish extremists. This is highlighted by a recent public dispute between the IDF and the police concerning two sinkholes discovered near Qalqilya, close to the seam line.

The article criticizes the performance of the IDF's Central Command, the Judea and Samaria Division, and the Samaria Brigade. The decision to return Palestinian families to their homes in Jalud is described as militarily amateurish, citing a small force, lack of coordination with police and Shin Bet, insufficient intelligence gathering, and a general leniency by the IDF towards Jewish terror. The author suggests that operations against Jewish terror should be conducted at night rather than in daylight.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning from the Tel Nof Air Force base, stating that there are signs of impending attacks from enemies as elections approach. He asserted that Israel's long arm would reach anyone who targets them. Separately, Minister Israel Katz alluded to targeting Hamas leaders abroad, vowing that those involved in the October 7th attacks would not die peacefully in their beds, referencing a foiled assassination attempt in Qatar.