Security cabinet meets after six-week hiatus amid fears of West Bank escalation

Israel's security cabinet convened on Sunday for the first time since early October, holding a three-hour meeting amid concerns over a possible security escalation in the West Bank and preparations for a scenario in which Palestinian Authority security personnel turn their weapons against IDF soldiers and Israeli communities.The IDF's preparations focus on a scenario known as "turning the barrels," in which members of the Palestinian Authority's security services direct their weapons against IDF troops and Israeli communities.The discussion took place after plans developed by the IDF Central Command to address the scenario, which were originally scheduled to be presented to the cabinet in early October, were postponed following a change in the agenda.The IDF has formulated plans to respond to a possible attack by Palestinian security personnel, and the scenario has been rehearsed by the Judea and Samaria Division. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir previously ordered additional troops to be deployed in the area and preparations to be made for the rapid mobilization of further units if necessary.Defense Minister Israel Katz raised the possibility in October of a large-scale confrontation with the Palestinian Authority, in which members of its security services and the Tanzim organization would act against IDF soldiers and Israeli settlers.Katz warns of possible war with Palestinian AuthorityAccording to Katz, Israel could declare war on the…