IDF Chief of Staff Visits Jordan Border, Vows Readiness for All Scenarios

The Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, visited the Jordan border on Wednesday, accompanied by Maj. Gen. Avi Blout, Commander of the Central Command. The visit included a tour of positions along the border and the obstacle currently under construction in the area of Division 96.

During the visit, Zamir held a situation assessment with commanders regarding operational challenges in the sector and issued directives to implement the defense concept and enhance operational readiness. He emphasized the commanders' mission to strictly maintain law and order and protect the security of all populations in the area.

Several other senior officers and officials participated, including the head of the Manpower Directorate, the commander of Ground Forces, the head of the Logistics and Technology Directorate, the director of the Border and Seam Administration, the commander of Division 96, and the project manager of the Eastern Sector. Zamir also met with David Elhayani, head of the Jordan Valley Regional Council, praising the cooperation between the Central Command, Division 96 forces, the council, and residents in strengthening security and settlement in the region.

Zamir stated that Division 96 exemplifies the implementation of lessons learned since October 7th. He noted that the IDF is bolstering its security concept by enhancing defensive and offensive capabilities along the borders, with the division preparing forward positions and improving intelligence gathering and lethality. He described the eastern border as a strategically significant arena for Israel's security, tasked with maintaining stability, thwarting terror threats, and preparing for various scenarios.

"Our mission is to maintain stability in the sector, thwart terror threats, and at the same time prepare for a variety of scenarios," Zamir said. He stressed the need for high alert, anticipating threats, and ensuring the protection of borders and civilians, alongside intelligence warnings. He highlighted the Jordan Valley's historical, Zionist, and security importance as Israel's eastern defense line, essential for national security and strategic depth. Zamir concluded that security relies not only on fortifications and military forces but also on the strength of spirit, robust settlement, thriving agriculture, and citizens deepening their roots in the land, emphasizing the necessity of synergy between military, civilian, and settlement systems.