Netanyahu Warns of Escalation Ahead of Elections, Vows Control Over West Bank

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the seam line in Samaria on Tuesday, warning of a potential security escalation ahead of the upcoming elections. He stated that Israel has received intelligence indicating that "enemies" intend to act in the near future and that the IDF is prepared for all scenarios, including "turning guns around." Netanyahu emphasized that the military has presented a robust operational plan for such an eventuality, issuing a stern warning to adversaries not to test Israel's strength.

During the tour, IDF, Shin Bet, and Border Police commanders briefed the Prime Minister on efforts to defend communities near the seam line and ongoing operational activities in the area, which include arresting terrorists, confiscating weapons, and addressing security threats. Netanyahu specifically addressed the former refugee camp in Tulkarm, describing it as a "terrorist stronghold" that the IDF had cleared under his directive.

Netanyahu criticized the possibility of residents returning to the camp area, referencing a High Court of Justice petition. "These are not residents, they are terrorists," he declared, asserting that the IDF will maintain control of the area and that "there will be no Arab army west of the Jordan River, there will be the Israel Defense Forces." He stressed Israel's strategic position, noting its proximity to Netanya and the coastal plain, and stated, "Our country, our control."

The Prime Minister also reiterated the security warnings and the defense establishment's readiness for the election period, noting that hostile elements might exploit the sensitive political climate. He concluded by affirming Israel's commitment to maintaining security, establishing new settlements and farms, and protecting the nation's borders from the Jordan River to the sea.