WATCH: IDF arrests 30 Palestinians suspected of facilitating illegal crossings of Samaria security barrier

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) arrested approximately 30 Palestinians suspected of facilitating illegal crossings into Israeli cities during a large-scale operation in northern Samaria over the past week. Soldiers from the Ephraim Brigade conducted raids in villages near the Samaria security barrier, targeting infrastructure used for these crossings in areas including Tulkarem, Qalqilya, and Shuweika.

"The defense of the seam zone begins with initiative and offensive action,"

said the commander of the Ephraim Brigade, Col. P., emphasizing continuous presence and targeted operations. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle smuggling networks and enhance security for Israeli residents. Last year, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged tougher enforcement against Israelis employing Palestinians illegally, stating, "Do not employ illegal residents. This is the murder of Jews."