On Tuesday, the Ministry of Defense announced that it has initiated detailed planning for the construction of a security barrier along the eastern border.
This planning phase, expected to cost tens of millions of shekels, will include developing an initial design for the barrier, gathering relevant data, incorporating advanced technology, and assessing environmental factors such as terrain, soil conditions, and hydrology.
The need for a new security fence along the Jordanian border has been recognized for years, especially given ongoing incidents of weapons smuggling. Although former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had sought funding for a high-tech fence, his request was rejected by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
In response to the growing security concerns, Gallant, alongside IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, established a new division focused on defense and security along Israel’s longest border, which presents significant challenges due to its varied terrain. The new division’s mission includes countering terrorist activities, preventing weapons smuggling, maintaining peaceful border relations, and fostering cooperation with the Jordanian military.
Two weeks ago, Halevi appointed Colonel Oren Simcha, former commander of the Nahal brigade, to lead the new Eastern Division. The establishment of the division was seen as urgent, as the Finance Minister had yet to approve the funds for a new security fence, despite the issue being a longstanding priority.
Former IDF Central Command head Maj. Gen. (ret.) Yehudah Fuchs had been a strong advocate for the fence before his retirement. Analysts suggest that the decision to approve the budget for the barrier may have been influenced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s desire to give newly appointed Defense Minister Yoav Katz a win early in his tenure. Some also speculated that the move might be a response to Katz’s recent decision to cancel plans for new administrative detention orders against Jewish settlers accused of violence in Judea and Samaria.
The new fence’s construction is expected to take several months. Meanwhile, the IDF recently intercepted a smuggling attempt along the Jordanian border, seizing 14 pistols and 65 parts for weapons near the Adam bridge. Despite strong cooperation with the Jordanian military, smuggling activities are on the rise, with concerns that these routes could also be exploited for terrorist activities.