Katz convenes top security chiefs, orders expansion of offensive operations in Judea and Samaria

Defense Minister Israel Katz held a security discussion Monday night with IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir and other top commanders. Katz instructed the IDF to expand offensive counter-terror operations across Judea and Samaria and to prepare for the capture of an additional refugee camp, applying the model used in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams, according to a defense source.

Defense Minister Israel Katz convened a high-level security assessment on Monday night with IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, OC Central Command Maj.-Gen. Avi Blot, and heads of Military Intelligence, Operations, and the Shin Bet. During the discussion, Katz instructed the IDF to expand offensive counter-terror operations across Judea and Samaria and to prepare for the capture of an additional refugee camp, applying the operational model already used in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams — where residents were evacuated, terror infrastructure dismantled, and a permanent IDF presence established. The directive, announced on Tuesday, marks an extension of the "security-first" doctrine that, according to Katz, has reduced terror activity by approximately 80% over 2025-2026. Separately, Katz addressed an administrative matter: following a military appeals committee decision to overturn a removal order against Tal Yanon Dredik due to procedural flaws, he instructed that the order not be renewed and that the issue be handled through alternative means. The assessment was backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to the Defense Minister's office.

4 developments

1. 3 hours ago · 15:39 · 28 JulLatest

   Katz met with Chief of Staff Zamir and top commanders to finalize.

2. 13:12 · 28 Jul

   Directive to replicate the Jenin-Tulkarm-Nur Shams operational model.

3. 13:02 · 28 Jul

   Katz cites 80% reduction in terror activity as justification for expansion.

• Developing09:59 · 21 JulDefense Minister Katz to re-examine administrative measures against settlers, demands policy shift from IDF general
• Developing15:07 · 12 JunIDF Judea and Samaria Division chief meets local leaders in Sharon to bolster settlement security
• Developing10:54 · 6 JulDefense Minister Katz briefed by IAF chief Tishler on operational readiness across all fronts
• Developing4 days ago · 16:23 · 24 JulIDF Chief of Staff reportedly opposed expanding Judea and Samaria operation in recent cabinet meetings

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