The IDF is adding combat battalions and shortening air-force response times in the West Bank, where hundreds of thousands of Israelis are expected to visit during the holidays. Officials report no specific warnings of planned attacks; Palestinians face no current restrictions.
Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir placed the Judea and Etzion brigade sectors, especially the seam line with Jerusalem, under the 98th Division; an IDF official said the move was intended to ease the Judea and Samaria Division headquarters’ workload. About 24 battalions are operating in the West Bank. Police and Border Police will raise alert levels from Saturday evening at major roads, friction points and nature sites.
Regional brigade commanders may decide whether to impose roadblocks or other restrictions in their sectors, based on friction between Palestinians and Israelis, unusual incidents or specific warnings. Separately, district police intelligence led to the discovery of 10 lathes, an improvised weapon, M-16 rifle parts and military equipment in the Nablus sector. Two Palestinians were arrested on suspicion of possessing and manufacturing weapons.
