IDF reorganizing forces around Jerusalem to better counter West Bank threats

The IDF is reorganizing its West Bank structure in order to bring the entire area surrounding Jerusalem under one brigade, rather than split between two as is the case now, the army spokesperson says.

Under the proposal, which was the result of several months of General Staff-level planning, the areas close to Jerusalem that are currently under the Etzion Regional Brigade will instead become part of the Binyamin Regional Brigade, the military says.

This decision was made in light of increased attacks coming from the West Bank areas surrounding the city of Jerusalem in recent years. By bringing all the area under one roof, the army hopes to make its law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts more efficient and better coordinated.

Increased cooperation between the Etzion and Binyamin Brigades is set to begin immediately, but the formal transfer of responsibility will only take effect later this summer when new brigade commanders are named, the spokesperson says.

In addition, a few months later, some of the northern parts of the Binyamin Regional Brigade will become the responsibility of the Samaria Regional Brigade.

The army notes the plan is an internal reorganization, and will not affect the deployment of forces in the area.

— Judah Ari Gross