'Do not test us': Netanyahu touts new 'massive' eastern border wall, defense plans
The vast majority of the border wall will cover the Jordanian border. Netanyahu explained that it would complement the nation's existing security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toured the construction site of a new massive eastern border wall on Thursday, alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz. The approximately 400 km long barrier will stretch from the Yarmouk River, shared by Jordan, Syria, and Israel, to Israel's southernmost city, Eilat. Netanyahu emphasized that the wall would be complemented by existing security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, boasting anti-drone defense capabilities.
He stated that the wall represents maximum defense to protect Israeli citizens and deter potential invaders. The prime minister was accompanied by other security officials on his visit, including Maj.-Gen. Oren Simcha, the 96th Division Commander. Following his tour, Netanyahu announced a security meeting with top IDF officials, including the Chief of Staff, Shin Bet Director, and Mossad head.
The eastern border wall is seen as a critical component of Israel's security and defense plans, though Defense Minister Katz noted that it is secondary to an active, proactive, offensive policy led by the prime minister, the State of Israel, and the IDF. The tour took place less than two weeks before the 2026 Knesset elections, raising questions about Netanyahu's role in the October 7 massacre and his plan for an independent ministerial committee to investigate the incident.
Netanyahu also indicated that Likud would retain the Defense Minister portfolio in a future government, but cautioned against distributing ministerial positions prematurely.
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