Katz Says Special Legislation Could Preserve IDF Presence in Samaria Camps

Defense Minister Israel Katz said Monday evening that Israel would retain a long-term IDF presence in the Jenin, Tulkarm and Nur Shams camps, using special Knesset legislation if necessary. He said the decision concerned operational security and the protection of Israeli soldiers and civilians. His statement followed a High Court direction to prepare a plan and timetable for residents’ return, subject to security needs and conditions on the ground. Katz attributed the prolonged-presence policy to a change developed with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and described Iran-backed terrorist formations as the threat it addressed.