IDF Central Command Surprised by 13 Families Occupying Structures Near Jericho

The IDF Central Command stated it was surprised and unaware of 13 Jewish families occupying eight structures in Area C near Jericho, and denied any prior knowledge of land purchases in the area. An official military source told Walla news, "We were surprised and did not know." Currently, no military forces are present to secure the families, who are reportedly armed with weapons not issued by the IDF. A military source indicated that IDF soldiers from a nearby post would assist in defense and respond to any security incidents in the area if they occur. Security officials noted that land transactions in Judea and Samaria require complex legal approval processes, including permits from the Civil Administration and political leadership, and stated they are unaware of any such approvals for this action. The area was reportedly previously designated a closed military zone following the Disengagement Law, prompting Central Command and the Civil Administration to investigate the legal status of the land and building permits. Military sources suggested the incident has escalated to the political echelon, with no decision yet made on how to proceed, and an unusual decision is not expected over Shabbat. Central Command fears similar incidents in other areas, given the current political climate and the lead-up to a new government, which could necessitate changes in IDF defense strategies. This comes amid a significant strain on IDF forces, which have been tasked with protecting over 140 new "lone farms" and settlements approved by the government in the past year. "Situation assessments" are scheduled to further examine the incident. The IDF spokesperson had not yet issued an official response as of Friday evening. Meanwhile, the Shabbat event in Hebron, attended by tens of thousands, was proceeding without unusual incidents.