IDF warns of rising West Bank tensions despite low terror levels, pushes for preventive operations

Despite terror activity in the West Bank being at its lowest level since 2011, security officials warn of rising friction and potential escalation ahead of the holidays. The IDF has expanded preventive operations, targeting suspects and incitement hubs, while concerns grow over new communities, weapons smuggling, and a possible succession struggle in the Palestinian Authority.

Despite terror activity in the West Bank being at its lowest level since 2011, security officials warned on Sunday that Hamas headquarters in Turkey, Gaza, Iran, Qatar, Lebanon, and other locations will likely attempt to advance terror plots targeting Israelis and IDF soldiers. The low terror levels are attributed to combined operations by the Judea and Samaria Division, Shin Bet, Israel Police, and Border Police. Ahead of the holidays, the division carried out extensive preventive operations targeting suspects and incitement hubs. However, a new trend of increased friction on the ground is a source of concern, partly due to the significant increase in new communities (84 added to 180 existing), lone farms (around 140), and illegal outposts (more than 100). Security officials warn of potential escalation scenarios, including a 'turning of the guns' scenario in which the Palestinian Authority enters a succession struggle over Mahmoud Abbas's position and weapons are turned against IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians. Defense Minister Israel Katz may pressure the IDF to capture additional refugee camps and carry out broader operations.