Israeli security forces are carrying out a massive raid in the Bedouin town of Tarabin al-Sana in the south of the country, following repeated incidents of violence and attacks in the area in recent days. The operation is aimed at strengthening the enforcement of law and order after local incidents in neighboring Jewish communities raised growing concerns about security and weapons-related crime.

According to the police, this is one of the largest operations of its kind in the Negev in recent years. Hundreds of police officers and Border Police personnel are taking part, supported by special units and investigators.

Major Crackdown on Weapons and Violence

Police reported that at least 16 suspects were arrested in the raid. They are being investigated on suspicion of illegal weapons possession, organized crime, and involvement in violent disturbances. During the searches, numerous weapons, ammunition, and military equipment were seized.

A police spokesperson said that some of the confiscated weapons were “military-grade arms allegedly stolen from Israeli army bases.” Such weapons pose an immediate threat to public safety and are increasingly being used in criminal confrontations.

During the operation, security forces set up roadblocks and a temporary command center to control movement in the area. According to the police, the operation will continue “until the mission is completed.” The goal is to restore state authority and dismantle criminal networks in a sustainable manner.

Political Backing and Tensions

Israel’s Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited the site of the operation and expressed his support for the forces involved. He stated that the state would “not tolerate lawless zones in the Negev” and emphasized that law and order must be enforced throughout the country.

בסיור משילות בתראבין. יהיה חוק וסדר בנגב – אנחנו בעלי הבית כאן! pic.twitter.com/rCChhdkS0q

— איתמר בן גביר (@itamarbengvir) December 28, 2025

According to police statements, Ben-Gvir said the operation sends a clear message that Israel is determined to act decisively against illegal weapons and violence. Ensuring public safety, he stressed, is the top priority, regardless of the population group involved.

Criticism of the operation came from various quarters, warning of a potential further escalation of tensions. Representatives of human rights organizations voiced concern that large-scale raids could further strain relations between the state and the Bedouin population. The police rejected these claims, stressing that the operation is directed solely against criminal structures.

According to the security authorities, the operation is part of a longer-term strategy to curb the growing problem of weapons-related crime in the Negev. In recent years, the region has repeatedly struggled with violence, extortion, and armed clashes.

Police announced that they will maintain an increased presence in the coming weeks, with the aim of improving security in the long term and preventing further escalation.

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