The IDF Has Launched a Counterterrorism Operation in the Hebron Area

On Friday, October 23, terrorists carried out a shooting attack in the Judea Junction, in which two IDF troops fell and several others were wounded. 

Following the attack, IDF troops and Israel Border Police officers in Judea and Samaria launched offensive counterterrorism operations in the Hebron area, from which the terrorists had emerged. The area, along with several additional areas, has been placed under a cordon. The troops are currently operating inside the residences of the terrorists and additional suspects.

The troops are conducting precise, targeted and thorough searches throughout the area to locate and dismantle terrorist infrastructure and weapons, while questioning suspects. The operation is targeted and limited to the area from which the terrorists operated.

Additionally, dozens of weapons were located, including M16 rifles, Carlo submachine guns and four explosive devices.

Residents living in the area where troops are operating are able to leave through three designated exit points, following questioning and security screening. Individuals who raise suspicion during the screening process will be referred to security forces for further questioning.

The operation is a direct continuation of a series of offensive counterterrorism measures carried out since the attack, including mapping the terrorists’ residences, imposing a cordon on the areas of Hebron and Halhul and establishing roadblocks. Also, efforts are underway to improve security conditions in the area by demolishing illegal structures that could pose a security threat at the site of the encounter.

Counterterrorism Operations Throughout Judea and Samaria

Since the shooting attack, troops have operated throughout Judea and Samaria in approximately 40 areas and 400 locations, focusing on areas identified with Hamas.

As part of the activity, the troops apprehended approximately 40 suspects, including terrorists affiliated with Hamas and the Islamic Jihad, as well as suspects involved in incitement, public disorder and rock-hurling.

Judea Brigade: The IDF is operating extensively at dozens of locations in Hebron and Halhul to thwart terrorism and have apprehended approximately 20 suspects.

Etzion Brigade: Troops have entered more than 70 locations across more than 10 areas as part of a brigade-level operation. During the activity, suspects involved in planting explosive devices and advancing terrorist activity were apprehended, including Hamas operatives.

Samaria and Menashe Brigades: Memorials commemorating terrorists who took part in terror attacks in which Israeli civilians were killed were dismantled. In the Samaria Brigade, two suspects involved in a terror attack against Israeli civilians in the area of Burin were apprehended. A hunting rifle used by suspects in the area of Silat al-Dhahr was also located.

Benjamin Brigade: IDF troops operated in approximately 15 areas and apprehended terrorists affiliated with Hamas, terrorist operatives and individuals involved in public disorder.

Ephraim Brigade: Several suspects were apprehended, and troops conducted dozens of questioning sessions and searched for weapons.

The IDF will continue to operate with determination to prevent the entrenchment of terrorism in the area and thwart any threat to Israeli civilians. Troops will continue to operate proactively to prevent terrorist attacks, address security threats and protect Israeli civilians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the IDF operating in Hebron?

The operation followed a shooting attack on October 23, in which two IDF troops were killed and several others were wounded. The terrorists had emerged from the Hebron area, prompting the IDF to launch an offensive counterterrorism operation there.

What weapons and explosives were found during the IDF Hebron operation?

IDF troops located dozens of weapons, including M16 rifles and Carlo submachine guns, as well as four explosive devices.

How many suspects were apprehended in Judea and Samaria since the operation began?

Approximately 40 suspects were apprehended across Judea and Samaria following the attack. They included individuals affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, as well as suspects involved in incitement, public disorder and rock-hurling.

How can residents leave areas where the IDF is operating in Hebron?

Residents can leave through three designated exit points after questioning and security screening. Individuals who raise suspicion during screening are referred to security forces for further questioning.