Palestinian reports on Sunday indicated that Israeli tanks had been documented near the city of Jenin in Judea and Samaria. The tanks, from the IDF 188th Armored Brigade, are joining an additional line of defense alongside an existing battalion in the area. Two more Nahal battalions have entered the offensive phase and are operating in villages in the region.
The IDF announced that security forces are expanding their counterterrorism operation in northern Samaria. Nahal Brigade forces and the Duvdevan Unit have begun operating in additional villages in the Jenin area, which falls under the Menashe Brigade's jurisdiction. Simultaneously, a tank platoon will be deployed in Jenin as part of the offensive effort. Forces continue to operate in Jenin and Tulkarem as part of the ongoing operation.
In early February, Israel Hayom reported that dramatic steps were being taken regarding intelligence operations and target identification in the West Bank. The IDF is effectively rebuilding its combat doctrine in Judea and Samaria, preparing for scenarios similar to those of October 7, while also carrying out offensive operations. In essence, the IDF aims to apply combat models used in other theaters to Judea and Samaria as well.
In essence, IDF Commanders recognize the need to maintain a sustained presence on the ground and operate from within cities and villages, rather than relying solely on the raid-based tactics previously used. Additionally, the IDF is preparing, from an intelligence standpoint, for the possibility of a larger-scale maneuver than in the past. This includes the integration of additional regular forces beyond the territorial brigades, a strategy implemented in recent weeks and expected to be repeated as the campaign continues, according to IDF officials
