Israel strengthens defences against potential Jordanian border invasion

Israel is taking extensive precautions to prevent another catastrophic event like the October 7 attacks and is preparing for a potential invasion from Jordanian territory.

In light of recent developments, the Israeli military is reinforcing its defences, especially along the Jordanian border and in the West Bank, in anticipation of possible militant infiltration, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are now bracing for a scenario where dozens, or even hundreds, of militants could cross from Jordan into Jewish settlements in the West Bank, escalating security concerns.

Israeli media outlets cite Iran’s ongoing efforts to establish and support terrorist cells in the West Bank and Jordan as a primary factor in this heightened state of alert.

To address these threats, the IDF has increased the size of its forces and set up new departmental outposts in strategic areas. These outposts are intended to provide immediate responses to any incursions or emergencies, ensuring that Israeli security forces are better positioned to react swiftly.

A significant shift in security responsibilities has also been made. The Israeli government has transferred control of the security along the border with Jordan to the army’s Central Command. This restructuring aims to centralize operations and strengthen Israel’s ability to deal with emerging threats more efficiently. A new territorial unit called the "Eastern Division," is being established to oversee the security of this region.

In November, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced plans to accelerate the construction of a security fence along the border with Jordan. Katz explained, “We are recording Iran’s relentless efforts to create an eastern front against Israel. I have decided to actively promote the construction of a fence on the border between Israel and Jordan. We will do it very quickly.” 

This increased military activity follows the escalation on October 7, 2023, when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. The attack led to immediate retaliatory strikes by Israel, marking the beginning of a major conflict. The fear is that militant groups operating out of Jordan or the West Bank could exploit the security gaps, further destabilizing the region.

By Tamilla Hasanova