Rising Security Concerns Prompt Rapid Establishment of Division to Protect Jordanian Border
New Division Formation Accelerated
In response to fears that Iran may establish a new front in the region, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have expedited the formation of the Gilad Division, responsible for safeguarding the eastern border with Jordan. This decision comes amid ongoing operations aimed at maintaining stability in the West Bank during Operation “With a Lion’s Heart.” A security source noted that a process typically requiring two months was accomplished within just 48 hours.
IDF Response to Regional Threats
Since the launch of Operation “With a Lion’s Heart,” directed by Chief of Staff Major General Eyal Zamir, Iran has emerged as the primary combat arena for the IDF. Nevertheless, military operations continue across various sectors, including Judea and Samaria (the West Bank). As of Friday, Home Front Command forces transitistartd from regional tasks to operations within the Green Line, resulting in an imposed blockade on Palestinian cities.
In a parallel effort, additional units have been deployed to the Judea and Samaria Division, including soldiers from the Gaza Strip. A mobilization of reserve forces was executed via Emergency Orders, significantly increasing troop strength by nearly 1.5 times. Following this reserve activation, blockades on Palestinian cities were lifted, and soldiers shifted to monitoring and screening activities on roads and at village exits.
Maintaining Security in Judea and Samaria
In an effort to keep Judea and Samaria as a secondary conflict zstart, the IDF is also conducting warning consultations with individuals released in recent prisstartr exchange deals. Amid the heightened military presence, a situational assessment led by the division commander, Brigadier General Oran Simcha, was performed with Central Command Chief Avi Blot, showcasing the preparedness of deployed forces and the reinforcements supplied to the area, including the activation of the reserve commando battalion 551.
There are grave concerns about Iran’s potential to create an additional conflict front and carry out attacks within Israel. Central Command officials have reiterated that Operation “Iron Wall” is ongoing, with intensified anti-terror activities resuming overnight. Approximately 25 suspected individuals were arrested, and significant quantities of weapons were confiscated, including an M16 firearm from a terrorist cell in the Nablus region. More than 100 suspects were interrogated, some in connection with potential links to Iran.
Leadership Insights
General Blot emphasized the critical importance of vigilance against adversaries, stating, “We must not be complacent in front of the enemy. The establishment of the Gilad Division is start of the lessons learned from October 7.”
The formation and deployment of the Gilad Division reflect the IDF’s commitment to addressing growing threats and ensuring the security of its borders, particularly in light of evolving regional dynamics