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The population centers of the West Bank are large, yet
separated from each other. Starting out with major conventional
military operations, IDF efforts have developed into more selective,
yet intensive campaigns, often led by Special Operations forces. The
IDF prefers to "envelop" specific objectives by making use of
extensive intelligence and surveillance coordinated with small
operational "stings". These operations maintain momentum as well as
pressure on the enemy, yielding valuable intelligence, which is used
to support continued activity. As operational success has improved the
IDF has been able to pull most of its heavy armor back from West Bank
cities.
Intelligence gathering is performed by all means available, tapping
the potential of Human Intelligence (HUMINT) in ways never before
practiced by Israel. This has involved close integration of field
assets of the Shabak (Israel Securities Authority ISA) with the
IDF at the tactical level. Advanced surveillance gathering methods
have also been introduced. Some, like the RAFAEL Stalker, rely on
organic Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA)
equipment, while the Air Force’s unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and
Elbit/Ness Technologies’ Advanced Multi-sensor Payload System (AMPS)
operate in support of ground based Urban-LIC activities. These assets
are integrated at the tactical level in order to monitor targets from
a long distance, in day and night.
'Stings' are performed by Special Forces units, primarily at night.
Night operations increase stealth, and concealment. Precision and
coordination are provided by advanced night vision technology. Local
infantry units provide operational support.
These continued activities yield valuable intelligence, which leads to
further operations aimed specifically at the terrorist's operational
framework and command structures, logistics, and support. The
continued pressure applied directly on the terrorists, forcing them to
run and hide, reduces terrorist activity in the affected areas. This
in return, enables the IDF to lift road blockades and ease the
pressure on the urban centers of the West Bank.
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