Rifles and cucumbers: The unusual images from Shechem and the plan that will not be implemented
Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the IDF to prepare for the conquest of another refugee camp, but the army is not advancing this plan, focusing instead on other operational methods. An example of this was documented in the Shechem market, where special forces were seen patrolling among the stalls.
Despite the declaration by Defense Minister Israel Katz, the IDF is not currently advancing the conquest of another refugee camp. Instead, the military is focusing on prolonged operations and demonstrating governance in the heart of Palestinian cities to maintain freedom of action in the region.
At the end of last month, the Defense Minister held a security discussion regarding Judea and Samaria with the participation of the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the head of the Operations Directorate Itzik Cohen, the head of Aman Shlomi Binder, the commander of the Central Command Avi Bluth, and other senior officials. According to Minister Katz, he instructed the forces to "expand offensive activity against Palestinian terror and prepare for the conquest of another refugee camp, following the model of Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur a-Shams."
While such plans exist, their implementation is currently not feasible. The conquest of camps in northern Samaria significantly reduced terror volumes, but security sources claim there is currently no need to replicate this activity elsewhere, as other methods can increase governance and deterrence.
Operational priorities
The Judea and Samaria Division recently conducted two days of intense activity in the Kalandia refugee camp, focusing on governance and the demolition of illegal structures. This is part of a "prolonged operation" strategy that was previously frozen due to a decrease in terror activity.
Conquering a refugee camp in the manner of Jenin or Tulkarm requires significant manpower, engineering tools, and, most importantly, the attention of the General Staff. The General Staff is currently fully focused on the Iranian issue, the situation in southern Lebanon, and the tense calm in the Gaza Strip. It is doubtful that the IDF can allocate the necessary forces for such tasks at this time.
Meanwhile, images were published this morning showing IDF soldiers patrolling the central market in Shechem. Special units have been conducting patrols there for weeks, maintaining their ability to act in the heart of the city.
Fear of "contagion events"
The Judea and Samaria Division is working to maintain its achievements in lowering the terror threshold. A major concern is the threat of "contagion events"—attacks carried out by lone wolves without prior intelligence. Efforts are also being made to counter terror organizations attempting to inject funds to stir up local infrastructures, alongside an increased emphasis on drone operations.
The Judea and Samaria arena remains unpredictable. Should intelligence arrive regarding the establishment of concentrated terror infrastructures in a specific camp, the IDF is prepared to concentrate significant efforts to suppress them and convey a message to other sectors.
The IDF Spokesperson stated:
"Last Thursday, a broad operation was completed in the Kalandia refugee camp and the village of Kafr Aqab in the Binyamin Brigade, aimed at eradicating terror and improving operational response. This operation was planned in accordance with the operational situation assessment and as part of the ongoing activity of security forces in refugee camps throughout the Judea and Samaria Division."
