Israel to Build Security Barrier Along Border With Jordan

Latest Developments

Cabinet Greenlights Barrier Plan: Israel’s security cabinet has approved an initiative proposed by Defense Minister Israel Katz to construct a high-tech barrier along the country’s eastern border with Jordan. The barrier will involve sensors and mobile military units, including command infrastructure, and will stretch approximately 264 miles from Hamat Gader in the north to the Samar Sands in the south. The project is expected to take three years to complete at a cost of approximately $1.5 billion.
Barrier Follows Formation of Jordan Valley Division: The announcement of the barrier follows the IDF’s formation last October of a new Eastern Division in the Jordan Valley to address growing security threats, including arms smuggling and terrorist infiltrations from Jordan. The IDF subsequently introduced five new brigades primarily composed of volunteer reservists organized according to their geographical residence. The brigades’ primary mission is to enhance Israel’s defensive posture along its borders and ensure a rapid response to emerging threats.
Recent Threats From Jordan: Israeli authorities have been increasingly challenged by infiltrations and weapons smuggling along the porous border with Jordan. On May 16, residents of Kibbutz Sha’ar HaGolan detained a migrant worker from Jordan who had infiltrated Israeli territory near the community. Meanwhile, the IDF and border police thwarted an attempt to smuggle arms into Israel from Jordan on May 4.

FDD Expert Response

“The October 7, 2023, Hamas-led massacre served as a pivotal moment for Israeli defense policy, underscoring the critical importance of reliable border security. In response, the Israeli government has prioritized fortifying its border with Jordan, recognizing that threats are evolving. This shift reflects a broader strategic change aimed at closing security gaps, enhancing early warning systems, and ensuring rapid response capabilities across Israel’s border with Jordan and other fronts.” — Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst and Editor at FDD’s Long War Journal

“Jordan and Israel’s diplomatic ties have been strained since October 7, but their security cooperation remains strong. Iran still seeks to open an eastern front through Jordan to pressure Israel, making continued coordination essential. Jordan must intensify its crackdown on any potential terrorist activity and maintain intelligence sharing with the Israelis to prevent the transfer of weapons into the West Bank.” — Ahmad Sharawi, FDD Research Analyst