Security gaps on the Jordanian border: Senior Ministry of Defense officials tour Arava communities
The head of the Settlement and National Infrastructure Unit at the Ministry of Defense examined security needs along the eastern border. The regional council presented existing gaps and security requirements following plans to expand the communities.
The head of the Settlement and National Infrastructure Unit at the Ministry of Defense, Colonel (res.) Nochi Mandel, toured the Central Arava communities along the Israel-Jordan border to examine security needs and existing gaps in defense components. The tour took place against the backdrop of threats to Eilat and its surroundings; it was reported two months ago that the head of the Shin Bet ordered preparations for an attack scenario.
The Central Arava Regional Council hosted Mandel and his team for a professional tour, which was also attended by representatives of the Home Front Command and the division staff responsible for the Israel-Jordan border sector.
During the tour, the council's CEO, Noa Braun-Avni, and the council's security officer, Ori Lev, presented the needs of the communities and moshavim, alongside plans for their expansion and the security requirements expected as a result. The participants reviewed the infrastructure, equipment, and security components required to provide an optimal response for the residents.
The head of the Central Arava Regional Council, Meir Tzur, said:
"The council is working in close cooperation with the Settlement and National Infrastructure Unit at the Ministry of Defense, with the goal of obtaining the funding required to complete all missing security components and to finance their ongoing maintenance."
According to him, a mutual understanding emerged regarding the importance of the issue and the urgency of closing the gaps, alongside a deep familiarity with existing needs and expected developments in the region. The council will continue to work with all relevant parties to promote the issue and strengthen the sense of security and readiness in the Arava communities.
The tour comes against the backdrop of security warnings in recent weeks from the Shin Bet regarding expected threats in Eilat and the Arava. The head of the Shin Bet ordered senior officials in the organization to prioritize the scenario of a possible attack on the city, considering Eilat a security weak point primarily due to its isolated geographical location.
