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

A senior security official warns of a sharp rise in nationalist crime in Judea and Samaria, describing a hard core of 300-500 youths as "wild growths" carrying out planned incursions to expel Palestinians. Data reveals an increase from 800 incidents in 2025 to over 950 since the beginning 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 rise in nationalist crime in Judea and Samaria, describing a hard core of 300 to 500 youths as "wild growths" carrying out planned incursions aimed at expelling Palestinians. According to security establishment data, since the beginning of the war there has been a dramatic increase: while in 2025 about 800 incidents were recorded, as of early October 2026 the number stands at over 950, close to the 2023 peak (980 incidents). The turning point was on February 28 with the start of Operation "Lion's Roar." The official harshly criticizes local authority heads, ministers, and Knesset members who visit illegal outposts and provide backing to the rioters. The IDF emphasizes the difficulty in dealing with the phenomenon due to the limited toolbox against "blue side" offenders, compared to the broad tools against Palestinian terrorists. The security establishment warns 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 legal system for releasing rioters, and calls for expanding enforcement tools such as vehicle confiscation and fines.

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