Netanyahu Clashes With IDF Over Hebron Operation Ahead of Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have ordered the continuation of a large-scale IDF operation in Hebron, overriding the recommendation of Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to conclude the mission. The operation, which began after a deadly terror attack on October 23 that killed two soldiers, involves searching for weapons, detaining suspects, and demolishing illegal structures. The IDF's 98th Division is conducting the intensive search.

Sources indicate that the IDF command believes the operation has yielded modest results and questions its necessity in its current form, citing legal issues with prolonged displacement of residents. So far, only a small amount of weapons and ammunition have been found, with no significant caches discovered. The IDF also fears that Netanyahu's actions could provoke a war with Iran.

However, political leadership, including Netanyahu and Katz, argues that the terrorists involved in the October 23 attack were heavily armed, necessitating a continued search for weapons and ammunition. They believe the operation also serves as a deterrent. The IDF's presence in Hebron, a major Palestinian city, is seen as having a significant psychological impact.

This disagreement echoes past tensions, such as the IDF operation in the Kalandia refugee camp in August 2026, where the defense minister pushed for a more aggressive operation than the military deemed necessary. The IDF is currently focused on preventing further attacks, particularly lone-wolf incidents, and mitigating the risk of copycat attacks fueled by social media incitement. They emphasize the need for precise actions, continuous assessment of operational benefits, and consideration of potential escalation and reactions.