The IDF uncovered a rocket in Tulkarm on Tuesday evening, heightening concerns that Iran is making efforts to enable rocket fire from the West Bank. Border Police sappers neutralized the device, and IDF troops swept the area. The incident remains under investigation.
This is the second discovery in the past few weeks; both incidents were reportedly “under Iranian direction,” according to security assessments.
Approximately a week ago, terrorists launched a rocket from the village of Na’ama, near Ramallah. Following a joint IDF and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) operation, a three-member cell was located, along with a building containing dozens of rockets in various stages of preparation.
Defense officials described the seized arsenal as “a game-changing weapon,” and assessed that “foreign elements, led by Iran, are working to promote a plan for rocket fire from the West Bank.”
Last week, forces from the IDF, Shin Bet, and the Yamam Counterterrorism Unit, acting on Shin Bet intelligence, surrounded the Na’ama building where the suspects were located. The forces opened fire on the structure before the three suspects surrendered and were arrested on site.
Security officials believe West Bank groups aim to target major cities
Security officials now believe that terrorist groups in the West Bank are attempting to manufacture and acquire rocket capabilities that could threaten several cities in central and northern Israel, including Kfar Saba, Ra’anana, Netanya, Afula, Hadera, and Beit She’an.
It was recently revealed that Iran has been supplying terrorist factions in Jenin and Tulkarm with mortars and standard munitions. Last week, the Shin Bet and IDF reported a move toward local rocket production and recorded an attempted launch.
The Shin Bet subsequently launched a large-scale operation to uncover the infrastructure and production site, culminating in the discovery in Na’ama.