Israeli Army Chief Approves West Bank Military Plans, Vows Offensive Operations

Israeli Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir approved operational plans on Wednesday to continue military activities in the occupied West Bank, announcing an increase in deployed forces, including the 98th Division, and a heightened readiness for extensive offensive operations. This decision comes amid a surge in attacks by Israeli forces and settlers against Palestinians, including assaults on farmers and their land during the olive harvest season.

Zamir's approval occurred during a visit to the Central Command headquarters, where he chaired a meeting to assess security and operational situations. Attendees included the Commander of the Central Region, Avi Bluth, the Commander of the West Bank Division, Kobi Heller, commanders of the 98th and 6th Divisions, brigade and battalion commanders, and officials from the Shin Bet and Border Police. Following a field tour in the Hebron brigade area, Zamir reviewed operational challenges and troop missions before endorsing plans for ongoing operations, emphasizing counter-terrorism and stability maintenance.

Zamir stated that numerous security warnings across fronts and the current sensitive phase increase the likelihood of deteriorating conditions. He noted that the army has reinforced its forces in all sectors to improve operational control, specifically mentioning the deployment of the 98th Division to enhance security and stability. "We have reinforced forces and raised the level of readiness, and we continue to prepare to deal with any attempt by the enemy to surprise us," he said, stressing the need for vigilance and operational freedom to quickly thwart threats.

He vowed to transition to large-scale military operations, asserting that the army "pursues and fights terrorism everywhere" and is "in a high state of readiness to move to extensive offensive action against any party that tries to target the citizens of the State of Israel."

Amidst ongoing settler attacks on Palestinians and their property, particularly during the olive harvest, Zamir claimed the army is working to prevent civilian assaults and ensure the continuation of the olive harvest. He stated that such attacks "do not reflect the Israeli and Jewish spirit" and must be rejected. He added that the army would continue to facilitate the olive harvest while maintaining public order and security for all residents.

Zamir's remarks followed a tour by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu near Tulkarm, where he linked security warnings to upcoming Israeli elections and threatened severe military force against potential attacks. Netanyahu warned adversaries against testing Israel before the elections, threatening overwhelming force. He also rejected the return of displaced Palestinians to Tulkarm camp, labeling them "terrorists" and asserting Israeli military control, a stance coinciding with the ongoing displacement of residents from camps in the West Bank.