Security cabinet approves plan to construct high-tech security barrier along Jordanian border

Israel’s security cabinet announces its approval of Defense Minister Israel Katz’s plan to construct a high-tech security barrier along the eastern border with Jordan, alongside a broad initiative to strengthen Israeli presence in the Jordan Valley.

The project — slated to begin in June — will include a 425 kilometer (264 mile) multi-layered defense system from Hamat Gader in Israel’s north to the Samar Sands, north of Eilat. The NIS 5.2 billion ($1.4 billion) initiative is expected to take three years and will combine a physical barrier with advanced sensors, mobile military units, and command infrastructure.

The plan also calls for bolstering Israeli presence in the area by establishing “national mission centers,” including pre-military academies and national service frameworks — a move officials say will deter Iranian efforts to smuggle weapons into Israel and create a new terror front via Jordan.

“The establishment of a security fence along the Israel-Jordan border…is a critical strategic step against Iran’s attempts to turn the eastern border into another terror front,” says Katz.

“This is a strategic move that will bolster national security, reinforce our hold on the Jordan Valley, ensure Israel’s sovereignty for years to come – and deal a blow to Iran’s efforts to turn the eastern border into a terror front,” he adds.

Work will begin on two priority segments totaling 80 kilometers (50 miles), while planning continues for the remainder of the fence. The project is being coordinated by an inter-ministerial team led by the Defense Ministry’s director general Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram.