Israeli security forces arrested more than 60 wanted suspects and seized a large cache of weapons, explosives, drones, and incitement materials during an extensive weeklong counterterrorism campaign across Judea and Samaria, the IDF announced. The operation included more than 250 offensive missions aimed at disrupting terrorist activity and preventing attacks against Israeli civilians.

According to the IDF, those taken into custody included suspected weapons traffickers and illegal firearms dealers, individuals believed to have been involved in terrorist planning and bomb-making, a suspect who intelligence indicated was preparing to carry out an imminent attack, stone-throwers, Molotov cocktail assailants, and suspects connected to a shooting in Chevron that occurred during a dispute between local clans. Military officials said the arrests were made possible through targeted intelligence that enabled security forces to locate and apprehend high-value suspects.

Throughout the operation, troops confiscated a wide range of weapons and military equipment. The seizures included two improvised Carlo-style submachine guns, three hunting rifles, a handgun, grenades, ammunition, and various firearm components. Forces also recovered bomb-making materials, military gear, three drones, and materials promoting terrorist incitement. The IDF said the discovery of the drones reflects ongoing efforts by terrorist organizations to incorporate advanced technology into intelligence-gathering and attack operations.

Military officials noted that the confiscation of the improvised Carlo weapons represents a significant blow to potential terrorist activity, as the homemade firearms have frequently been used in attacks. The explosives components recovered during the raids could have been used to manufacture bombs capable of causing mass casualties. The operations also included targeted raids on homes and other buildings where the weapons and equipment were being stored, with the missions carried out jointly by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Israel Police.

The campaign spanned the entire Judea and Samaria Division, with forces conducting simultaneous operations in multiple locations. Among the areas where arrests were made were Chevron, Beit Lechem, Shechem, and Jenin, all of which have been major centers of terrorist activity in recent years. The operations relied on precise intelligence and close coordination among military units, special forces, and police, enabling security personnel to disrupt several alleged terrorist plots before they could be carried out.

The IDF noted that the intensified operations in Judea and Samaria are taking place alongside ongoing military campaigns on other fronts. In recent weeks, Israeli forces have eliminated dozens of terrorists in Gaza, conducted targeted strikes in southern Lebanon, and destroyed extensive underground tunnel infrastructure as part of Israel’s broader effort to neutralize security threats across multiple theaters.

The military emphasized that it will continue carrying out proactive counterterrorism operations wherever necessary, saying security forces remain committed to preventing attacks and safeguarding the residents of Judea and Samaria as well as all citizens of Israel.

{Matzav.com}