Why is the IDF Operating in Hebron?
29.10.26
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Over the past week, the IDF has been operating in the Hebron area and across Judea and Samaria. This is the comprehensive timeline of the operations:
Friday - The Day of the Terror Attack
Following a report of a shooting attack in the Judea Junction area, numerous IDF troops were dispatched to the area and launched a pursuit after the perpetrators. Two terrorists who had emerged from the Hebron area were eliminated, and a cordon was imposed near the scene of the attack.
During the encounter, two soldiers from the Search and Rescue brigade fell: Staff Sergeant Ron Yonatan Roytman and Sergeant Yuval Shai Svilem. Alongside them, three soldiers from their battalion were lightly injured.
The Chief of the General Staff LTG Eyal Zamir highlighted the soldiers’ bravery and sacrifice, stating: “The outcome of the encounter with the terrorist cell is painful…the troops’ actions prevented a serious attack against Israeli civilians. We will act decisively, pursue and reach all those involved in the attack.”
Following the attack, the IDF launched offensive counterterrorism operations in the Hebron area, and in additional locations. Troops began conducting precise, targeted and thorough searches throughout the area to locate and dismantle terrorist infrastructure and weapons, while questioning suspects.
Additionally, troops took a series of offensive counterterrorism measures, including mapping the terrorists’ residences and establishing roadblocks and cordons in the areas of Hebron and Halhul. They also demolished illegal structures that could pose a security threat at the site of the encounter.
It is important to note that, from the beginning of the operation, residents living in the area where the IDF was operating were able to leave through three designated exit points.
IDF troops operating in Judea and Samaria
Saturday - IDF Activity Over the Weekend
The IDF, Israel Border Police and the ISA operated throughout Judea and Samaria in roughly 40 areas and 400 locations, while focusing on areas linked to Hamas. They apprehended approximately 40 suspects, some of whom are affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Several of the other suspects apprehended were involved in incitement, public disorder and rock-hurling.
In parallel, security forces were operating across Judea and Samaria in order to thwart terrorism. They entered dozens of locations across multiple areas, and apprehended suspects involved in planting explosive devices, advancing terrorist activity and creating public disorder, some of whom were affiliated with Hamas.
In the Samaria and Menashe brigades, the IDF dismantled memorials commemorating terrorists who took part in terror attacks in which Israeli civilians were murdered. Additionally, a hunting rifle used by suspects in the area of Silat al-Dhah was located and dozens of questioning sessions were conducted.
Sunday - Continued Counterterrorism Operations
Troops apprehended and transferred a suspect for further questioning who intended to carry out an imminent terrorist attack along a major road.
In Hebron, troops located an underground excavation near the home of one of the terrorists involved in the Friday attack. It was located during searches of more than 500 sites, and is roughly 15 meters deep and 75 centimeters wide. An electronic device was found inside and was transferred for further examination.
The shaft of the underground excavation
Activity Over the week
During continued operations in the Hebron area, troops confiscated weapons, including an M16 rifle, knives and a vest. They also found a replica gun and apprehended six suspects allegedly involved in terrorist activities and planning and facilitating attacks. One of the apprehended suspects is affiliated with Hamas.
The weapons found in the Hebron area
The IDF will continue its counterterrorism operations throughout Judea and Samaria to thwart attacks and maintain security in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the IDF launch operations in Hebron?
The operations followed a shooting attack near Judea Junction in which two soldiers fell. The subsequent activity focused on locating terrorist infrastructure and weapons, questioning suspects and preventing further attacks.
How many suspects were apprehended?
Approximately 40 suspects were apprehended during operations across Judea and Samaria.
What was discovered near the Hebron home of one of the terrorists?
Troops discovered an underground excavation during searches of more than 500 sites. It was around 15 meters deep and 75 centimeters wide, and an electronic device found inside was transferred for further examination.
What weapons and other items were found during the operations?
An M16 rifle, knives, a vest, a hunting rifle and a replica gun were found.
