Israel

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The IDF and Mossad are on alert for an emerging threat from Iraq, as Iran continues to expand its network of pro-Iranian terror groups and infrastructure there, Maariv reported Friday.

According to Northern Command sources, Tehran has been heavily investing in these groups to enable potential attacks on Israel—both by air and on land—should the order be given. Reports indicate that Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, recently visited Iraq to meet with senior militia leaders and advance operational coordination.

Iran has seen its axis of regional terror groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, crumble at the hands of the IDF ever since the Oct. 7 massacre.

The report states that the Iraqi terror groups’ main method of attack would likely involve missile and drone launches from Iraqi territory, following a pattern similar to that seen during the Iron Swords War against Israel. A secondary option reportedly being considered is a coordinated ground maneuver starting in Iraq, moving through Syria, and potentially approaching the Israel–Jordan border.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Ministry of Defense announced progress on plans to reinforce the nation’s eastern border. The ministry confirmed that the first tenders have been completed, and construction of a new border barrier will begin in the coming weeks. The initial phase will cover two sections in the northern sector, with early work focused on the valley area stretching from Hamat Gader to Jordan. Additional companies will later join to extend the project from Machsom Tzafo to Yafit.

The project will include earthworks, drainage, road and highway rehabilitation, as well as the installation of water, sewage, electrical, and communication infrastructure. The Defense Ministry said the initiative is a key component of its national security strategy, spearheaded by Director General Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, aimed at strengthening strategic control over Israel’s eastern border.

Major General Eran Ofir, head of the Borders and Seam Directorate, is leading the establishment of a comprehensive operational system that integrates barriers, intelligence collection, technology, sensing, reconnaissance, and maintenance teams. As construction proceeds, the Defense Ministry and IDF will continue planning the next sections and refining the broader border defense concept.

The total cost of the project is estimated at approximately 5.5 billion shekels. Once completed, it will form a multi-layered security system spanning 425 kilometers—from the southern Golan Heights to the Samar Sands, north of Eilat.

Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram stated, “Looking ahead to the emerging threats, we must act with a sense of urgency and strengthen the strategic grip on the eastern border. This is not just a physical obstacle, but a complete multi-layered system that will include the deployment of flexible and mobile forces, appropriate to the topography and changing threats. This is alongside encouraging Zionist-security settlement, investing in security-civilian infrastructure, and creating industrial growth engines. This is a national mission to which we must enlist all government ministries and the civilian and business sectors.” Maariv reported.