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The Israel Defense Forces arrested 40 individuals suspected of terror activity and arms trafficking during a series of overnight and early-morning operations across the West Bank, the military announced on Friday.
According to the IDF, two terrorists were killed in separate confrontations as troops moved to detain wanted individuals and dismantle local terror infrastructures. Several firearms believed to have been smuggled into the area were also seized.
In the Ramallah-area village of Silwad, the Binyamin Brigade arrested five suspects accused of inciting terrorism and publicly supporting Hamas during a parade held two weeks ago.
Troops also detained two individuals allegedly involved in manufacturing and operating explosive devices, marking a significant blow to local bomb-making networks.
Further north, the Ephraim, Menashe, and Shomron Brigades apprehended 21 wanted Palestinians linked to various security offenses. During these operations, soldiers confiscated two M-16 rifles and a shotgun that officials say were intended for future attacks.
A major operation was also carried out in Hebron, where the Judea Territorial Brigade conducted a brigade-wide deployment ahead of Shabbat “Chayei Sarah,” an annual event drawing thousands of Jewish worshippers to the Cave of the Patriarchs. The IDF said the heightened security aims to prevent potential attacks during the gathering.
As part of these preparations, the Etzion Brigade arrested 10 suspects, including two who threw stones at soldiers and another accused of hurling Molotov cocktails at Israeli civilians. Troops also conducted house-to-house searches to identify individuals involved in recent disturbances.
The IDF stated that all detainees, along with the confiscated weapons, have been transferred to the Israel Police and the Shin Bet security service for interrogation and further processing. Military officials emphasized that operations would continue as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt terror networks and prevent escalation in the region.
The latest wave of arrests comes amid increased tensions in the West Bank, where Israeli forces have intensified counterterrorism activities in response to a rise in armed attacks and attempted infiltrations.
The IDF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security, saying it remains prepared to respond to emerging threats across the area.