Israel Enhances Security Measures Along Eastern Border with Jordan
In response to increasing threats and recent incidents at the Allenby Crossing, the Israeli military has unveiled a comprehensive security plan aimed at bolstering defenses along its eastern border with Jordan. The plan, reported by Yedioth Ahronoth's military correspondent Yoav Zeitoun, is a direct reaction to the heightened risk of weapon smuggling and infiltration that has intensified in recent years, particularly due to Iran's alleged support for Palestinian groups in the West Bank.
The plan is structured into three main phases designed to enhance surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and physical barriers along the border stretching from Eilat in the south to the northern Jordan Valley.
Strengthening Monitoring and Surveillance
The first phase focuses on deploying hundreds of radars and cameras mounted on high towers to ensure comprehensive coverage of the border. This advanced technology will enable the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to monitor smuggling and infiltration attempts in real-time, providing critical data to respond effectively.
Quick Response Enhancements
The second phase emphasizes the improvement of mobile capabilities, including the integration of drones for surveillance and attack operations. These drones will vary in size and capability, ensuring that the IDF can promptly address any threats or smuggling activities detected along the border.
Upgrading Engineering Barriers
The third phase involves a significant upgrade to the existing border infrastructure. The plans include reconstructing outdated barriers and constructing new, modern obstacles designed to thwart infiltration and sabotage attempts. This upgrade is expected to enhance the physical security of the border significantly.
Additionally, a new military division will be established to oversee security operations along the Jordanian border, supported by specialized operational units trained to handle various threats.
Financial Considerations
The projected cost of this extensive security initiative is anticipated to exceed the 2.5 billion shekels spent on the border wall with Egypt but will likely be less than the 4 billion shekels allocated for tunnel defenses along the Gaza border. Funding will be sourced from an independent budget to alleviate financial pressures on the government’s war budget.
Motivations Behind the Plan
The urgency of this plan is underscored by a significant uptick in arms smuggling from Jordan to the West Bank, coinciding with the decline of conflicts in Syria and Iraq. This surge has reportedly facilitated the transfer of thousands of weapons and explosives, raising alarms about potential escalations in violence against Israeli forces.
Moreover, the changing political landscape, particularly the anticipated withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq by the end of 2026, has prompted Israel to fortify its borders against the perceived increase in Iranian influence in the region. As such, the Israeli government is taking proactive measures to secure its borders in anticipation of future security challenges.
