Tel Aviv:The Israeli army has announced plans to conduct significant military exercises in northern and central regions of Israel on Sunday and Monday. These drills are set to simulate surprise attacks and infiltrations by air and land just ahead of the nation's parliamentary elections scheduled for Tuesday.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the exercises are designed to evaluate and enhance the army's readiness to defend against potential threats on multiple fronts. They will involve various divisions, including the Northern Command's 210th Division, the West Bank Division, and the Central Command's 98th and 96th divisions, along with the air force. The drills form part of the army's annual training plan for 2026 and aim to bolster military proficiency and preparedness, with no immediate security threats identified.

The exercises will see increased movement of security forces and aircraft in the involved areas, as troops practice scenarios involving surprise attacks and ground infiltrations. While the timing of these drills coincides with the upcoming elections, the army has not linked the two events. Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has announced heightened military readiness, restricted soldiers' leave, and reinforced troop deployments in the West Bank to ensure the elections proceed smoothly.

Recent political polls from the Maariv newspaper have indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc is projected to win 48 seats, three less than previous projections, while the Jewish opposition bloc is expected to secure 54 seats. Neither bloc is anticipated to achieve the 61-seat majority required in the 120-member Knesset.