IDF expands Judea and Samaria security guards authority

(JNS) — An order issued by the Israel Defense Forces this month drastically expands the authority of civilian security guards in Judea and Samaria, allowing them to conduct searches at entrances to Jewish communities even on individuals who do not arouse suspicion.

IDF Central Command head Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth signed the order earlier this month but it only became public this week.

Saying that his action is “necessary for the security of the region, good governance and public order,” Bluth amended IDF Order No. 432, which defines the role of civilian security guards in Judea and Samaria, to all...