Major General Yehuda Fox is set to complete his tenure as the Commander of the Central Command after three tumultuous years marked by operational intensity, strategic countermeasures, and extensive criticism from various factions in Judea and Samaria. Fox's term was characterized by a series of targeted operations against Palestinian terrorism, which included high-profile missions like Operation Home and Garden in Jenin and the elimination of the Lions' Den infrastructure in Nablus.
During his command, Fox faced significant backlash from both the settlers and Palestinians. Settlers accused him of pursuing a containment policy and not doing enough to ensure their security, while Palestinians viewed him as responsible for numerous deaths and harsh measures. Despite the criticism, Fox implemented several security improvements, including the distribution of over 7,000 weapons to residents and the recruitment of 8,000 Territorial Defense soldiers to protect settlements.
Fox's strategies included enhancing the seam line barrier and conducting airstrikes, a tactic that had not been used in over two decades. His tenure saw the construction of a complex and technological barrier in northern Samaria and the establishment of a deterrent against infiltrations from the southern Mount Hebron area. These measures significantly reduced the number of infiltrators crossing into Israel.
The period under Fox's command also saw a resurgence of terrorism, with severe attacks in locations such as Jerusalem, Be'er Sheva, and Tel Aviv. This wave of violence led to Operation Shaver Galim, an initiative aimed at curbing terrorism in Judea and Samaria. However, the settlers criticized the operation as being too little, too late.
Fox's tenure was further complicated by political tensions, particularly with figures like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Disputes arose over the handling of illegal constructions and the IDF's response to settler violence. Despite these challenges, Fox's actions in the defense of settlements and his aggressive stance against terrorism have left a lasting impact on the region.
As Fox steps down, he leaves behind a legacy of complex and often controversial decisions. His efforts to balance security needs with political pressures and community expectations have been a defining feature of his command. The incoming commander, General Avi Belot, will inherit a region on the brink of further conflict, with the task of continuing the delicate balance between maintaining security and addressing the diverse concerns of the area's inhabitants.
