IDF forces have withdrawn from Hebron after 10 days of counterterrorism operations in response to the October 23 shooting in the West Bank that killed two IDF soldiers. During the operations, soldiers demolished illegal structures that posed security threats, arrested terror suspects, and seized weapons. JNS reports that the homes of the terrorists responsible for the attack were demolished just one week after the shooting.
In a targeted operation in a neighborhood belonging to a Hamas-affiliated clan, soldiers searched buildings and detained suspects for questioning. They seized four weapons, several vests and other military equipment. They also sealed an underground shaft next to one of the terrorists’ homes.
Soldiers and Israel Police also confiscated 25 illegal vehicles similar to the one the terrorists used in the attack.
“Counterterrorism activities throughout Judea and Samaria continue,” the official said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Oct. 24 that he had instructed the IDF and the Israeli Security Agency (Shin Bet) to draw up a “daring and comprehensive” plan unlike anything seen since the Six-Day War in 1967, aimed at uprooting terrorism in Judea and Samaria.
The IDF also announced that two Hamas terrorists, a recruitment leader and a sniper commander, were eliminated in separate strikes on Saturday. On Sunday, the military reported that a Hamas squad commander and a platoon commander had also been eliminated in Thursday strikes.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with President Donald Trump by phone on Sunday following Israel’s election, in which neither political bloc secured a majority of Knesset seats. The two leaders discussed Iran, with Trump indicating that he is pursuing another diplomatic effort but warning that strikes could resume if negotiations fail. The Iranian regime, meanwhile, has threatened a broader response if attacked by Israel or the U.S. as it continues to refuse to transfer its enriched uranium.
President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to meet with Knesset factions on Wednesday as part of the process of forming a new government. Consultations will begin with the smaller parties before moving to the larger factions, including Netanyahu’s Likud party.
The Fellowship and our supporters continue to pray for Israel as it seeks to form a new government. We also pray for the brave souls of the IDF and that peace, shalom, shines over the Holy Land.