Israel Katz Transfers Settler Enforcement to Police, Proposes Brigade C
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a new plan shifting civilian law enforcement in Judea and Samaria entirely to the police, excluding administrative detentions for settlers.
Minister of Defense Israel Katz stated on Monday that law enforcement regarding settler violence in Judea and Samaria must fall entirely under the jurisdiction of the Israel Police Judea and Samaria District. Katz emphasized that the IDF must focus on fighting Palestinian terrorism and protecting borders rather than civilian policing.
The defense minister noted that the IDF has prepared a comprehensive plan to transfer civilian enforcement responsibilities while excluding administrative detention orders for settlers, which he previously canceled. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to advance the plan, allocate resources, and coordinate between the military and police.
The announcement follows recent violent incidents, including an attack on Washington Post photographer Heidi Levine and European diplomats during an olive harvest. The proposed police plan includes establishing "Brigade C," a specialized force of approximately 800 officers operating under the IDF Central Command with full civilian policing authorities.
