The Rocket Workshop Discovery
Oct 7 Style Plots Foiled: Terror Cells Planned Mass Invasions of Jewish Towns
Israeli Central Command has revealed that multiple terror cells planning October 7 style raids were neutralized in 2025, even as a new threat emerges from Houthi training camps in Jordan.
The Israel Defense Forces Central Command released its comprehensive activity summary for 2025 on Monday, revealing a complex security landscape marked by significant tactical successes and emerging strategic threats. While the data shows a dramatic 78% decrease in terror incidents compared to the previous year, military officials warned of sophisticated plots inspired by the October 7 atrocities. Several terror cells were neutralized throughout the year as they prepared to launch coordinated raids on Jewish communities within Judea and Samaria. Amidst these domestic victories, the military is shifting its focus toward the eastern border, where Iranian backed Houthis are reportedly training for a potential invasion through Jordan. The report highlights a year of intensive counter terror operations, significant changes in open fire regulations, and a troubling rise in the severity of nationalist crimes committed by Jewish extremists.
Defeating the October 7 Inspiration
Throughout 2025, the military successfully dismantled several terror cells that were actively planning mass casualty raids on Jewish towns, directly modeling their strategies on the Hamas led invasion of 2024. These groups utilized underground infrastructure and advanced weaponry smuggled from Egypt through Jordan. To counter this, the IDF is significantly expanding the operational area of the 96th Division, also known as the Gilead Division, to secure the eastern frontier. Additionally, the military is establishing "David Brigades," composed of reservists who have completed multiple tours of duty, with specialized weapons stored in secure home safes for immediate response to local threats.
Despite the drop in total attacks, from 258 in 2024 to just 57 in 2025, the loss of life remains significant. Last year, 20 Israelis, including 15 civilians and seven soldiers, were killed in terror incidents. The military noted that while shooting attacks have decreased, there has been a rise in ramming and stabbing attempts. In response, the IDF carried out 57 airstrikes and demolished 37 homes belonging to terrorists, nearly doubling the rate of demolitions from the previous year. Central Command also seized approximately 17 million shekels in terror funding and destroyed dozens of lathes used for producing improvised explosives.
Emerging Threats and Internal Failures
The military is now sounding the alarm regarding the Jordanian border. Intelligence reports indicate that Houthi terrorists are conducting training exercises specifically designed for an invasion of Israel through Jordan. This threat is compounded by the discovery of a rocket production workshop in Jordan and the constant flow of illegal infiltrators. It is estimated that between 50,000 and 70,000 illegal residents are currently in Israel, many entering through the seam zone near Jerusalem. To address this, the military has updated its open fire orders, allowing for the arrest of suspects and the use of force against those throwing stones or firebombs on major highways, a policy that contributed to a massive drop in stone throwing incidents.
However, the 2025 report also labeled the rise in Jewish nationalist crime as a major failure. While the total number of incidents was 867, the severity grew by 58%, with 128 "serious" incidents involving arson and physical assaults. Central Command identified a core group of about 70 Jewish rioters, many of whom are not local residents, who operate without any rabbinic or community authority. This internal friction resulted in the dismissal or prosecution of several soldiers who were found to be involved in these crimes.
Economic Pressure and the Future of the Region
The security establishment remains concerned about the economic stability of the Palestinian Authority. Unemployment has surged to 29%, up from 13% before the war, as over 140,000 Palestinian laborers remain barred from entering Israel. The IDF warned that this economic despair serves as fertile ground for Hamas and Iranian recruiters. Despite this tension, military officials noted that security coordination with the Palestinian Authority mechanisms remains "excellent." Looking ahead, the government plans to restore a permanent military presence in Northern Samaria, including the construction of new company and battalion outposts, to ensure that the drop in terror seen in 2025 becomes a permanent reality.
