IDF and Shin Bet Launch Major Counter-Terror Operation in Hebron

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency, along with the Border Police and the Judea Regional Brigade, launched a large-scale counter-terrorism operation in the Hebron area on Saturday. The operation focuses on the sector from which two terrorists emerged before being neutralized Friday in a clash that resulted in the deaths of two IDF soldiers and injuries to others. According to a joint statement from the IDF and Shin Bet spokespersons, forces are conducting a thorough and targeted sweep of all infrastructure in the area to locate and dismantle terror assets and weapons, and are interrogating dozens of suspects. The operation is confined to the area where the terrorists operated and is expected to last several days. Residents in the operational zone will be able to exit through three designated points after interrogation and inspection. Any individual deemed suspicious during inspection will be taken for further questioning. This operation is a direct continuation of offensive counter-terrorism actions initiated Friday morning, including mapping terrorists' homes, imposing a cordon on Hebron and Halhul, and carrying out roadblocks and counter-terror activities in surrounding villages. Additionally, efforts are underway to remove illegal structures posing security risks near the encounter site. The Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, held an urgent assessment meeting Friday with senior security officials following the severe shooting attack at the Judea Junction. Zamir revealed alarming details about the terrorists' planned attack, stating that the rapid response of soldiers prevented an even more serious incident. He noted that a large quantity of ammunition, intended for a broader attack, was found in the terrorists' vehicle, which also contained an M4 rifle and a pistol. Intelligence suggests the terrorists departed Hebron with this substantial ammunition to carry out a significant attack. In parallel, Minister in the Ministry of Defense Bezalel Smotrich announced the extensive demolition of dozens of illegal Arab structures adjacent to the incident site, calling it "just the beginning" of deterrence efforts. Security forces are currently operating at dozens of targets across the Judea and Samaria region to thwart terrorism and will continue proactive operations to defend Israeli citizens.