Israel Defense Forces troops operating near Ramallah uncovered an explosives laboratory and apprehended a terror cell suspected of planning attacks on Israeli civilians and soldiers in the area, the military announced on Monday.
In a separate operation, Israeli security forces conducted enforcement actions in the Silwad area, targeting a compound and several illegally constructed structures. According to the IDF, terrorists had used the buildings as cover to hurl rocks at Israeli vehicles traveling along Route 60.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir held a situational assessment on Monday focused on the security situation in Judea and Samaria. He met with commanders of reserve battalions operating in the region, commending them for their ongoing readiness and emphasizing their critical role in maintaining national security.
“You—the battalion commanders and soldiers, the reserve force—are the great asset of the people of Israel. You are what sustains us; you are the central backbone,” Zamir said during the visit.
He acknowledged the growing strain on reservists, noting that some units were mobilized without prior notice at the onset of “Operation Rising Lion,” launched on Jan. 13 in response to threats from Iran.
“There has never been such a number of reserve duty days in the country. For nearly two years, civilians have been putting on uniforms, taking up arms, and heading out on missions. My deep appreciation goes to all of you,” Zamir added.
Senior military officials, including Central Command head Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth and Judea and Samaria Division commander Brig. Gen. Yaakov Dolef, also attended the discussions held at the Samaria Regional Brigade headquarters.
Zamir concluded by underscoring the importance of continued proactive measures: “Offensive efforts must continue alongside defensive efforts. There have been extraordinary achievements here, which are the result of sustained action. We have dismantled terror cells and eliminated the leaders of these organizations—some of the most dangerous terrorists. You must continue to pursue them wherever they are.”
