Defense Minister Katz Orders Transfer of Civil Enforcement in West Bank to Israeli Police

Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the preparation of a plan to transfer all civil enforcement powers in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) to the Israeli Police. This decision follows the IDF's assertion that it cannot effectively enforce civil offenses in the area. Katz emphasized that the IDF's role is to combat Palestinian terrorism and protect borders and settlements, not to pursue minor civil infractions such as chasing youths on hills.

The police will establish a dedicated unit to handle civil matters in the West Bank and will receive the necessary authority and budget to do so. Katz highlighted the growing settler population, with plans for 104 new settlements and the formalization of agricultural farms, alongside increasing security threats that require the IDF's focused attention.

This move aims to strengthen governance and law enforcement in the West Bank while allowing the IDF to concentrate on its primary security missions. Katz stated that the government and the IDF will delegate all required powers to the police to ensure effective enforcement. The change marks a significant shift in responsibility for civil order in the region.