Defense Minister Katz Orders Preparation to Seize Another West Bank Refugee Camp, Central Command Sees No Operational Need

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for the takeover of another Palestinian refugee camp in the West Bank. This directive follows the model previously implemented in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur al-Shams, involving the seizure of the camp, evacuation of residents, and maintaining a permanent military presence. However, the IDF's Central Command, led by Major General Avi Blot, disputes the operational necessity of such a broad move. They argue that no current refugee camp in the West Bank hosts terror infrastructures on a scale that would justify a full takeover, population evacuation, and permanent occupation.

Central Command also notes that recent attacks in the West Bank have not originated from refugee camps, casting further doubt on the need for this approach. Additionally, the Defense Minister's order lacks specificity, directing preparation for "another refugee camp" without identifying a particular target, which the military finds problematic. While Central Command supports focused operations in camps like Balata in Nablus or Qalandiya, they oppose replicating the extensive measures used in Jenin and Tulkarm. Their recommended tactics involve targeted arrests and searches for terror infrastructure without permanent occupation or population displacement.

This disagreement highlights growing tensions between Defense Minister Katz and Central Command Chief Blot, following previous security-related disputes. The IDF stated it would not comment on operational planning or closed-door discussions but confirmed it is preparing to implement the political leadership's directives.