Security source: 'Forces designated for counterterrorism are diverted to outposts'

A security source warns that IDF forces allocated to counterterrorism are being diverted to deal with illegal outposts and farms in Judea and Samaria. Currently, there are about 70 outposts and 120–150 farms, some unauthorized. Since the attack in Samaria three days ago, five new illegal outposts have been established. The Chief of Staff has previously warned of a shortage of fighters and the collapse of the reserve army.

A senior security source told N12 that IDF forces intended for operations against Palestinian terrorism are being diverted to deal with illegal outposts and farms in Judea and Samaria. According to him, 'We are required to allocate fighters who came to Judea and Samaria for completely different missions of counterterrorism activity to deal with illegal outposts.' Currently, there are about 70 outposts and 120–150 farms across Judea and Samaria, some coordinated with the IDF and others not. Since the severe attack in Samaria on Friday, at least five new illegal outposts have been established. The security source emphasized that farms can present a security opportunity if established in coordination, but also a weak point requiring additional forces. Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi previously warned the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that without recruitment laws and extended service, the reserve army would collapse. The Knesset extended regular service from 30 to 32 months, but the army demands 36 months.