IDF to deploy cameras along West Bank highways

Military plans to set CCTV grid along West Bank roads to enhance travel safety; says real-time monitoring will dramatically improve security, response time. Settlers welcome move, warn against complacency

Akiva Novick |Published: 09.20.10 , 12:20

Many Israelis fear driving along West Bank highways, as they have proven to be prone to terror attacks. The IDF now aims to improve travel safety on these roads by setting up a new CCTV system across these hazardous highways.

According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the Israel Defense Forces mean to use dozens of security cameras to monitor West Bank highways 24/7. The cameras will supply command centers set up in the divisions deployed in the area with a live feed, and should any threat be detected, the nearest IDF force will be alerted.

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GOC Central Command has already increased its monitoring of the area following the recent bout of terror attacks. As part of its efforts, some 100 security cameras will be installed along West Bank roads, in a project valued at NIS 500,000 (approx. $135,000).

The IDF said West Bank highways which are already monitored by security cameras have proven to be less prone to terror attacks.

"We have mapped out the entire area and especially known friction points," a source at GOC Central Command said. "Terrorists avert places with security cameras – they choose not to take the risk. This has deterrence value."

The military plans to disguise most cameras, which will be set up on high poles and placed on all major West Bank highways, such as Highway 60 – the area's main highway, which runs from its south to its north.

Areas such as the Gush Etzion and Tapuach junctions will be among the first to be hooked up to the new CCTV grid

Cameras will also be set along roads where previous terror attacks have taken place, along "dead zones" which are hard to observe, and near particularly hostile Palestinian villages.

Military sources stressed that the decision to place security cameras along West Bank roads predated the recent deadly terror attacks, adding that the decision "was the result of lengthy preparatory work by the military and Shin Bet, as part of the efforts to thwart terror attacks."

The Yesha Council and the various settlement committees welcomed the decision, but warned against complacency, saying that "cameras cannot replace soldiers."

While the system aims to first and foremost prevent terror attacks, it will also serve to fight accidents and car thefts. Should the cameras capture such offences, the footage will be turned over to the police for further action.