IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir announced on Wednesday that the military has deployed the 98th Division to Judea and Samaria amid heightened security alerts and growing concerns over possible escalation. During a situational assessment at Central Command, Zamir stressed that the IDF must maintain vigilance and multi-front readiness while preserving freedom of action to neutralize threats quickly. He said forces have been reinforced and operational readiness raised to prevent terrorist attacks and prepare for any attempt to catch Israel by surprise. The Chief of Staff condemned violence against innocent civilians, stating that such acts do not reflect the Israeli or Jewish spirit and must be eradicated using every tool available to the state. Zamir also noted that the olive harvest season is underway and that the IDF will continue working to enable the harvest while maintaining public order and security for all populations in the region. He expressed strong confidence in the commanders and fighters of the 98th, 96th, and Judea and Samaria Divisions for their professionalism throughout the recent war.

Zamir conducted the assessment together with Central Command Commander Major General Avi Bluth, Judea and Samaria Division Commander Brigadier General Kobi Heller, 98th Division Commander Brigadier General Mani Liberty, and other senior officers from the IDF, Shin Bet, and Border Police. The group reviewed operational challenges in the Judea Brigade area and approved plans for ongoing activity aimed at neutralizing terrorism and ensuring stability. The Chief of Staff highlighted that the potential for escalation has increased due to the volume of alerts across all fronts and the sensitivity of the current period. He affirmed that the IDF stands ready to shift to broad offensive operations against any actor seeking to harm Israeli citizens. Marking one year since the start of major operations, Zamir praised the 98th Division for its determined role in efforts to return hostages. The deployment underscores the military’s determination to keep tight control on the ground while balancing security needs with civilian activities such as the olive harvest.