ByAMIR BOHBOT
Updated:

The IDF Judea Brigade launched a large-scale counterterrorism operation on Monday in the Jabal Johar neighborhood of Hebron, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure, eradicating the illegal possession of weapons, and strengthening security in the area.

The operation is expected to continue for several days. During this period, residents may hear explosion sounds and observe increased movement of IDF forces throughout the area.

According to the IDF Spokesperson, “Security forces will continue to act proactively to thwart terror throughout the West Bank.”

The operation comes amid heightened security concerns in the region. About a month ago, approximately 30 illegal entrants infiltrated Israeli territory in the Lachish area, apparently from the Hebron region near the community of Shekef, managing to cross the security fence before being detected and arrested.

IDF troops operate in the Hebron, in the West Bank to destroy the home of Imran al-Atrash, one of the terrorists responsible for the November 18, 2025, ramming and stabbing attack that resulted in the death of 70-year-old Kiryat Arba resident Aharon Cohen. January 15, 2026.
IDF troops operate in the Hebron, in the West Bank to destroy the home of Imran al-Atrash, one of the terrorists responsible for the November 18, 2025, ramming and stabbing attack that resulted in the death of 70-year-old Kiryat Arba resident Aharon Cohen. January 15, 2026. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

IDF operates in Hebron

Police expressed anger and confusion over how an infiltration of this scale occurred once again, despite the forces and security measures deployed in the area.

Following the breach, police and Border Police units, working in coordination with IDF forces, carried out extensive operations in the area.

These included deploying a police helicopter, launching drones, and establishing roadblocks. After prolonged searches, approximately 30 illegal entrants were apprehended by security forces.

In a separate operation in September, the IDF arrested dozens of suspects involved in terrorist activity across the Hebron district, including in the al-Fawwar refugee camp, which is known as a Hamas stronghold.