IDF Calls Unauthorized Outposts a Major Security Challenge Amid Samaria Reprisals

An IDF official said more than 80 unauthorized outposts and 126 farming outposts in Judea and Samaria have become one of the military’s biggest challenges, straining its ability to maintain order and protect residents. The official said two additional battalions were made permanent in the sector two weeks ago, bringing the total to 24. The assessment came as Israeli extremists reportedly attacked Palestinian villages after Benayahu Mellet and Maj. Yuval Ezra were killed in the Tell terror shooting. The military reinforced the area, launched a broad counterterrorism operation and prepared to prevent further Palestinian attacks and nationalist violence by Israelis.