The sharp jump in nationalist crime, and the security system's emergency warning: "Not a handful, wild growths"

A senior security official warns of a sharp jump in nationalist crime in Judea and Samaria, describing a hard core of 300-500 youths as "wild growths" carrying out initiated incursions to expel Palestinians. The data reveal a rise from 800 incidents in 2025 to more than 950 since the start of October 2026, close to the 2023 peak. The official criticizes political backing and warns of a heavy diplomatic price.

A senior security official warns of a sharp and ongoing jump in nationalist crime in Judea and Samaria, describing a hard core of 300 to 500 youths as "wild growths" carrying out initiated incursions aimed at expelling Palestinians. According to security system data, since the start of the war there has been a dramatic rise: while in 2025 about 800 incidents were recorded, as of the start of October 2026 the number stands at more than 950, close to the 2023 peak (980 incidents). The turning point was on February 28 with the start of Operation "Roar of the Lion". The official sharply criticizes heads of authorities, ministers and Knesset members who visit illegal outposts and grant backing to the rioters. In the IDF they emphasize the difficulty of dealing with the phenomenon due to the limited toolbox against a "blue side", compared with the broad tools against Palestinian terrorists. In the security system they warn that the crime could lead to severe strategic damage: loss of security achievements, diplomatic damage vis-à-vis the US, and loss of settlement assets. The official also criticizes the judicial system for releasing rioters, and calls to expand enforcement tools such as vehicle confiscation and fines.

The sharp jump in nationalist crime, and the security system's emergency warning: "Not a handful, wild growths"