Israel’s border with Jordan, the country’s longest at nearly 200 miles, has seen a rise in cross-border attacks and weapons smuggling despite ongoing cooperation with Amman.
By Ehud Amiton, TPS
A new Israeli army division tasked with securing the Jordanian border and formed within 48 hours completed its deployment on Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed on Sunday.
The 96th “Gilead” Division wrapped up its first full-scale military exercise. The division was established within 48 hours at the start of the operation, aimed at countering Iranian weapons smuggling to Palestinian terror groups through Jordan.
Israeli media reports in recent days have also raised rising concerns that Iran is speeding up plans to undermine the Jordanian monarchy.
“This was an excellent opportunity to accelerate the establishment of the division,” said Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth, head of Central Command, which oversees Judea and Samaria.
“Success is defined as an opportunity meeting capability. There was a great opportunity here, and it met immense motivation from people in regular service, permanent service, and the reserves, with very high capabilities. You understood the gravity of the moment—you also understood the operational need, and you performed excellently.”
Israel’s border with Jordan, the country’s longest at nearly 200 miles, has seen a rise in cross-border attacks and weapons smuggling despite ongoing cooperation with Amman.
As part of its response, the government is investing millions of shekels to refurbish abandoned military posts, complete the border fence, and build new communities—possibly including a new city—to strengthen the civilian presence in the area.
The 96th Division’s first division-level exercise, led by the National Center for Ground Training, simulated emergency scenarios and rapid response operations. The drill was held in cooperation with other security bodies and local authorities to enhance combat readiness.
Iranian operatives have been smuggling weapons to Palestinian terror groups through the Jordan Valley, due to its proximity to Syria and Lebanon.
In August 2024, the IDF launched an operation aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure in northern Samaria and the Jordan Valley where most of the weapons go.
“Iran is funneling weapons and ammunition through the Jordanian border to Samaria. The whole area is now flooded with weapons, so we are fighting these terrorist organizations while their supply lines remain open,” Yaron Bouskila, CEO of the Israel Defense and Security Forum, told The Press Service of Israel at the time.
With approximately 70% of the population of Palestinian descent, many Jordanians strongly support Hamas. Surveys indicate a rising alignment between the attitudes of Jordanians and Palestinians, particularly in their stance toward the war in Gaza.
