IDF begins surprise exercise testing troops' readiness in West Bank ahead of High Holy Days

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a surprise exercise for soldiers from the Judea and Samaria Division, aiming to evaluate their operational readiness before the High Holy Days. All battalions within the division participated in the maneuver, which is expected to continue until the afternoon. The IDF assured the public that this exercise is part of a planned operation and no security concerns need to be raised. This follows a series of similar training exercises held earlier in the week throughout the nation.

On Sunday, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir initiated Operation Dawn 2.0, another surprise exercise designed to assess the military's ability to respond to large-scale attacks during the High Holy Days. Dawn 2.0 encompassed surprise scenarios and multi-scenario events across all "theaters of war." Commanders from all IDF units were involved, and the military's reserve capabilities were scrutinized.

Additionally, the IDF's 80th Division initiated Operation Kadmat Homa (Advancing the Wall) near Eilat and its vicinity on Monday. This exercise sought to enhance the division's readiness and capabilities against a potential large-scale attack reminiscent of the October 7 incident. All forces of the division, including air, naval, and additional security forces, were scheduled to take part.

The IDF noted a noticeable increase in the movement of security personnel, aircraft, naval vessels, and vehicles in the Eilat area and along Israel's eastern border. The Israel Police, participating under the name Operation Southern Wind, joined the security exercise, led by the Southern District of the Israel Police under the command of Cmdr. Haim Bublil and District Cmdr. Alon Kalfon.