Following the October 7 massacre and concerns over widespread terrorist outbreaks in the West Bank region, warnings of which were issued yesterday by Central Command Chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth, the IDF has significantly increased the pace of demolitions of homes belonging to terrorists who carried out attacks against civilians and security forces.
According to data presented to former defense minister Yoav Gallant, from October 2023 until the end of that year, 12 terrorist homes were demolished. In 2024, 18 structures were demolished. As of early September 2025, a further 23 terrorist homes have been demolished - the highest number recorded in this region over the past decade.
It is worth noting that during the tenure of outgoing West Bank Division Commander Brig.-Gen. Yaki Dolf, which lasted one year and eight months, resulted in the demolition of a total of 44 structures.
Goal: counterterrorism and to strengthen deterrence
Security officials say the increased pace reflects a broader policy by the defense establishment and political leadership aimed at strengthening deterrence - not only to punish those who carry out attacks but also to prevent individuals who are “on the fence” from joining terrorist activity. Additionally, the defense establishment supports home demolitions as a component of the broader counterterrorism effort.
The demolitions are carried out in three main ways: controlled explosions using combat engineering units and explosives; demolition using heavy mechanical engineering equipment; or the sealing of rooms and structures.
In parallel, the defense establishment monitors efforts to rebuild these homes, as well as the transfer of terror-related funds intended for such reconstruction.
Despite public disagreement and ongoing debates involving human rights organizations and the judicial system regarding the effectiveness of the deterrence policy and its compliance with legal and international standards, the IDF views the practice as an integral part of its ongoing fight against Palestinian terrorism.
It is important to note that, according to protocol, the families of the terrorists are given the opportunity to appeal the demolition order issued by the division commander (a “Commander’s Order”) in court. In some cases, these legal proceedings lead to changes in how the demolition is carried out or result in delays in execution.