Netanyahu Demands Plan Against "Reversed Barrels" Scenario in Negev

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Shin Bet to present a comprehensive report and a plan to counter the growing threat of weapons falling into the hands of Bedouin elements in the Negev, potentially leading to a scenario where these weapons are turned against Israeli civilians. The directive follows warnings from Shin Bet head David Zini, who alerted the cabinet to concerns about the establishment of nationalistic Bedouin battalions and the presence of military-grade weapons within the Bedouin population.

During a security briefing by Defense Minister Yisrael Katz on a "reversed barrels" scenario in the West Bank, Deputy Minister Almog Cohen raised the alarm about a similar possibility within Israel's borders. Cohen expressed concern that the IDF might not be able to fully respond if weapons held by Bedouin communities, including those linked to criminal organizations and potentially influenced by groups like Hamas and ISIS, were directed at citizens. He noted that this is not just a future concern, as some Bedouin elements already possess weapons through criminal networks.

Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs confirmed that ministers had been briefed on the issue the previous evening by Zini, referencing his concerns about Bedouin battalions in the Negev. Cohen, however, stated he was unaware of Zini's specific briefing. Netanyahu's demand for a report and action plan underscores the seriousness with which the government is now treating the issue.

Cohen is also reportedly advancing legislation to empower a "national task force," including the IDF, to operate within the Bedouin sector to confiscate weapons and enable military action deep within Israel if such a scenario unfolds. Roai Kahlon, head of the Prime Minister's Office's staff for combating crime in the Arab sector, echoed these concerns, drawing parallels to the "blindness" that characterized the security failures leading up to October 7th. He warned that the proliferation of weapons among criminal elements, even if currently motivated by financial gain, poses a future threat.

Hagai Raznik, director of the Riepman Institute for the Development of the Negev, described the situation as a "strategic time bomb," highlighting the threat to critical Israeli operational assets, including air force bases. He urged the government to adopt a multi-dimensional plan, appoint a coordinating official, secure border areas, and cut off weapon smuggling routes, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent a future disaster.