IDF Central Command Chief Warns Settler Violence Diverts Resources from Counterterrorism

In a special security briefing, IDF Central Command Chief Major General Avi Blot revealed that focusing on violent settler groups in the West Bank is hindering Israel's ability to prevent high-level Palestinian terrorism. Blot explained that dealing with these groups diverts critical resources away from counterterrorism efforts. He also noted the existence of illegal outposts in Area B, stating that over 170 have been evacuated.

Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, present at the briefing, emphasized the priority of preventing escalation in the West Bank and strengthening settlements. Zamir expressed concern that security forces are being drawn into addressing nationalist crimes by a small minority of settlers, which detracts from combating Palestinian terrorism. He called for focusing military efforts on threats from Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza, warning that violent outbreaks in the West Bank could divert IDF forces.

The briefing followed recent incidents in the village of Kusra, south of Nablus, where dozens of Jewish rioters entered homes and sabotaged water infrastructure. Golani Brigade soldiers stationed there were unable to control the situation, and no arrests were made. The IDF criticized the absence of police and Border Police forces during the attacks, highlighting that while the military can detain suspects temporarily, arrest authority lies with the police. Residents attempting to repair water lines destroyed by extremist settlers were blocked by rioters, forcing the equipment operator to flee.

An IDF senior officer commented on Defense Minister Israel Katz's decision to assign responsibility for West Bank law enforcement to the police, stating that while police and Border Police should do more, they currently fall short. The IDF remains concerned that settler violence could ignite wider conflict in the region, complicating Israel's security challenges.