IDF reinforces West Bank troop deployment amid concern of terror attacks over holidays

The IDF Central Command and the Israel Police's Judea and Samaria District estimate that hundreds of thousands of Israelis could travel throughout the West Bank during the holiday period.

The IDF is reinforcing its deployment across the West Bank amid concerns over potential terrorist attacks during the intermediate holiday days, when hundreds of thousands of Israelis are expected to visit nature sites, prayer sites, and public events throughout the area.

The IDF Central Command and the Israel Police's Judea and Samaria District estimate that hundreds of thousands of Israelis could travel throughout the West Bank during the holiday period.

Amid concerns that terrorist infrastructure or lone attackers could carry out attacks, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered several measures, including reinforcing the Judea and Samaria Division with additional combat battalions, shortening the Israel Air Force's response times, and preparing to respond to rapidly developing incidents.

Zamir also decided to place responsibility for the Judea and Etzion Brigade sectors, with an emphasis on the seam line with Jerusalem, under the headquarters of the 98th Division, commanded by Brig.-Gen. Meni Liberty, the former commander of the Commando Brigade.

A senior IDF official said the decision was intended to reduce the burden on the Judea and Samaria Division headquarters amid concerns over a potential outbreak of terrorism and the reinforcement of troops.

No warnings of planned terror attacks, Central Command officials say

The last time such a measure was taken was after Operation Defensive Shield, when the number of battalions deployed in the West Bank exceeded 40. There are currently about 24 battalions operating in the area, according to the report.

Central Command officials, however, said there were no specific warnings of planned terrorist attacks.

At this stage, no restrictions have been imposed on Palestinians throughout the West Bank. However, a military official in the Judea and Samaria Division told Walla on Saturday that Central Command chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth had decided that commanders of the regional brigades would determine for themselves whether to impose roadblocks or other restrictions in their respective sectors.

Such decisions would be based on friction between Palestinians and Israelis, unusual incidents, or specific warnings, the official said.

Israel Police, Border Police to increase alert levels

At the same time, Israel Police and Border Police officers in the Judea and Samaria District will increase their alert level beginning Saturday evening along major roads, at known friction points, and at nature sites to respond to unusual incidents.

Separately, intelligence activity by the Judea and Samaria District Police led to the discovery of 10 lathes, an improvised weapon, M-16 rifle parts, and military equipment in the Nablus sector.

Two Palestinians were arrested on suspicion of possessing and manufacturing weapons as part of the operation.