29 Sep 2024 | 04:17 AM UTC
Israel: Authorities will almost certainly increase security ahead of and during first Hamas militant attack anniversary Oct. 7
Israel authorities will almost certainly increase security nationwide ahead of and during first Hamas attack anniversary Oct. 7.
The Israeli government will almost certainly increase security across the country and place its security forces on a high state of alert and readiness ahead of and during the first anniversary of the Hamas militant attack Oct. 7. Officials will likely close borders with the West Bank, and may introduce security checkpoints in certain areas of Israel in anticipation of possible coordinated and lone-actor militant attacks. Additionally, the so-called Axis of Resistance, which consists of Iran's proxies in the region, will likely launch missile and drone attacks against major Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv.
The killing of Hassan Nasrallah, Lebanese Hizballah leader, by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Beirut Sept. 27 has further complicated an already volatile and unpredictable security environment in the region. The LH, in coordination with the Al-Houthis in northern Yemen, Shi'a militia groups in Iraq and Syria, as well as Palestinian militant organizations, will likely attempt to launch projectiles against Israel. It is unlikely that Iran will act directly against Israel in retaliation to the killing of Nasrallah; however, the country has continued to encourage and supply these proxy groups to attack Israel.
The IDF Home Front Command could introduce measures to limit large gatherings, close schools in the Northern District along the border with Lebanon, and restrict freedom of movement. Authorities have previously temporarily closed Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) and will do the same in the event of a sizeable aerial attack against Tel Aviv.
Consider avoiding nonessential travel to Israel and the Palestinian Territories until the situation stabilizes. Reconfirm flights and the status of roads and border crossings. Arrive early at airports to allow additional time for processing. Monitor local media and abide by security forces' directives. If incoming mortar rounds or rockets are reported or warning sirens sound in the general vicinity, report to the nearest bomb shelter and await further instructions from authorities. If no shelter is nearby, stay indoors and away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor or basement. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Avoid all demonstrations and concentrations of security personnel.
Hamas, the Gaza-based militant group, launched a surprise land, sea, and air assault against Israel early Oct. 7, infiltrating numerous locations in the south of the country and killing nearly 1,200 people. Dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, it was the largest and most coordinated attack against Israel in years. The attack coincided with the Jewish religious holiday Simchat Torah and came one day after the 50th anniversary of the start of the 1973 Yom Kippur War. The IDF engaged Hamas in ground-based fighting in southern Israel for days after the militants' initial assault before regaining control of all Israeli communities along the Israel-Gaza border.
