Katz instructs IDF to expand offensive operations in Judea and Samaria, prepare for capture of another refugee camp

Defense Minister Israel Katz held a high-level security assessment on Monday night focused on the situation in Judea and Samaria. The meeting included IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the Director General of the Ministry of Defense, the heads of Military Intelligence and Operations, the Commander of Central Command, and representatives from the Shin Bet and Israel Police.

Expanding the Offensive Model

During the briefing, Katz instructed the military to prepare for the capture of another refugee camp, utilizing the same tactical framework applied in northern Samaria hubs like Jenin and Tulkarm. This doctrine involves intensive, prolonged operations to neutralize armed cells and destroy explosives laboratories. Katz stated that this policy, which carries the full backing of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has already resulted in an approximately 80% reduction in terror activity throughout 2025 and 2026.

This directive follows the Defense Minister's previous assertions, as reported by The Zioneer, that Israel will not withdraw from "security zones" in northern Samaria and remains prepared to expand operations to additional camps if conditions necessitate. The move signals a continued commitment to a "security-first" doctrine designed to dismantle jihadist infrastructure before it can threaten Israeli population centers.

Administrative and Legal Directives

In addition to the operational expansion, the Defense Minister addressed specific administrative measures. Following a military appeals committee decision to cancel a restraining order against Israeli resident Tal Yinon Dardik due to procedural flaws, Katz instructed the defense establishment not to renew the order. Instead, he directed security forces to address the underlying concerns through alternative legal and security channels. This decision aligns with the current ministry's approach to reviewing the use of administrative measures against local Israeli civilians in Judea and Samaria.