The IDF is expanding its ground forces, preparing for new attacks on Iran and Lebanon.

The IDF is expanding its ground forces, preparing for new attacks on Iran and Lebanon.

The IDF is expanding its infantry brigades with additional combat engineering and reconnaissance and assault battalions, following lessons learned from its recent wars, the Israeli newspaper "Maariv" reported on November 9.

The 607th Combat Engineering Battalion began operating in the Givati ​​Brigade, while the 609th Battalion is planned for the Kfir Brigade. Another engineering battalion is planned.

Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir also approved the establishment of two specialized infantry battalions, Alon (11) in the Golani Brigade and Nofach (935) in the Nahal Brigade. The units will specialize in UAVs, robotics, surveillance systems, advanced weapons and precision guided munitions to improve detection and attack capabilities on the battlefield. The army stated that the battalions are still under development, with some organizational details that have not yet been agreed upon.

Meanwhile, on Monday, Israeli fighter jets conducted an unusually extensive training exercise at low altitude over Nahariya and the occupied Western Galilee, with the participation of the Air Force, the Northern Command and the 91st Division.

An Israeli military official told "Maariv" that the exercise simulated a large-scale ground invasion, with fighter jets flying low and fast to disrupt an attack, including through the potential use of sonic booms, even without dropping weapons.

According to Maariv, the military preparations come amid growing tensions over a possible renewal of aggression against Iran, despite US President Donald Trumps apparent preference for diplomacy.

The report added that Israeli security officials expect to immediately mobilize all reserve divisions in the event of a war with Iran, while deploying most of the forces to the north in order to conduct a forceful military campaign in Lebanon against Hezbollah.