Defense Minister Katz Transfers Civil Enforcement in West Bank to Police to Focus IDF on Terror Threats

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to develop a comprehensive plan to transfer all civil enforcement powers in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) to the Israeli Police. This decision, made during a meeting with IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir and heads of the Central Command and Military Intelligence, marks a significant step in preparing for the establishment of 104 new settlements and formalizing agricultural outposts in the region.

Katz emphasized that it is neither the role nor within the capability of the IDF to handle civil enforcement issues in the West Bank. With the expected increase in settlers following the approval of new settlements and the growing security threats on Israel’s central front, a clear separation between military and civil responsibilities is necessary. The police will be tasked with creating a suitable force to manage civil matters and will receive the necessary authority and budget to do so.

Meanwhile, the IDF will concentrate on its primary missions: combating Palestinian terrorism, protecting borders and settlements from security threats, and maintaining security in the area. Katz explicitly stated, "The role of the IDF is to fight Palestinian terror, focus on defending borders and settlements against threats, and not to chase teenagers on the hills." All responsibility for enforcement and civil issues related to settlements and settlers will be transferred to the police, which must prepare accordingly.

This move is described by Katz as a major enhancement of governance and law enforcement in the West Bank, allowing the IDF to focus on its core security tasks. The transfer of powers will be coordinated with the police and relevant authorities. Katz’s announcement followed his recent visit to the West Bank settlement of Ganim, where he contrasted Israel’s presence there with its military presence in Lebanon, affirming the commitment to the settlements by stating, "Here is the land of our ancestors, we remain forever."