Jerusalem, 22 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Defense Ministry ordered the immediate enforcement of a tougher security measure targeting illegal waste fires in Judea and Samaria, following a directive by Defense Minister Yisrael Katz. Residents of Judea and Samaria have long complained about pollution from fires originating in illegal Palestinian Authority garbage dumps.
Israel Defense Forces’ Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth signed an amended security order that defines waste fires as a national security violation. The measure authorizes the seizure and administrative confiscation of vehicles and equipment used for illegal dumping and burning. Israeli officials say the move aims to deter offenders, dismantle criminal infrastructure, protect public health and reduce environmental hazards threatening Israeli communities.