IDF Chief: "We’re Closely Monitoring Developments in Iran and Ready to Return to Fighting"

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir held a situational assessment tour today (Sunday) in the Judea and Samaria Division, together with Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth, Head of the Technology and Logistics Directorate Maj. Gen. Rami Abudraham, Judea and Samaria Division commander Brig. Gen. Kobi Heller, and the regional brigade commanders in the sector.

As part of the visit, the chief of staff held a discussion in which the operational picture in the sector was presented, along with counterterror efforts, troop activity, and preparations for continuing operational missions. In addition, the chief of staff spoke with the regional brigade commanders in the area, reviewed the multi-front operational challenges and those in the Judea and Samaria sector, and expressed his appreciation for their ongoing operational activity in protecting the state’s security and thwarting terrorism in the area.

Zamir also addressed the possibility of escalation in fighting in the Persian Gulf and the possibility that Iran could attack Israel. In his words, "Alongside the ongoing fight against terrorism in Judea and Samaria, we are closely monitoring developments in Iran and maintaining a high level of alert."

"We tracked the launch toward the Aqaba area today, and our air defense array is on alert to protect the citizens of Israel. We are prepared for an immediate return to fighting and will act with great force against anyone who harms us."

Regarding operational activity in Judea and Samaria, Zamir said: "The scope of terror incidents in Judea and Samaria is among the lowest in recent years. Alongside the determined fight against terrorism and alongside strengthening the communities, nationalist crime harms security and the communities. We must not accept this, and we will continue to act with the Shin Bet and the police to eradicate the phenomenon."

"Alongside the high level of preparedness in multi-front fighting, the Judea and Samaria sector remains a constant focus. I am aware of the major challenges before us in the coming period, when we are required to maintain a high level of readiness for rapid responses to sudden events and to preserve security and stability in the sector."