Rosalind Evans
Israel has launched its most extensive military operation in years, targeting various parts of the occupied West Bank. The operation, which included raids and airstrikes, has resulted in the deaths of at least 10 Palestinians. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the operation involved collaboration with the Israel Security Agency (ISA), focusing on areas like Jenin and Tulkarem.
Targeting Terrorist Infrastructure
According to Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, the operation aims to dismantle what he calls the “Islamic-Iranian terrorist infrastructure.” Katz emphasized the importance of dealing with threats from the West Bank similarly to those from Gaza. He stated, “We must deal with the threat just as we deal with the terrorist infrastructure in Gaza, including the temporary evacuation of Palestinian residents and whatever steps are required.” Katz made it clear that Israel sees this as a war they must win.
Escalating Tensions and Frequent Clashes
This large-scale operation is part of Israel’s increased military activity in the West Bank, where confrontations have become more common since Israel’s conflict with Gaza escalated following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, the IDF’s international spokesperson, highlighted that Iran has been involved in smuggling weapons and explosives into the West Bank. “Specifically, about Jenin and Tulkarm, we’ve seen over 150 shooting and explosive attacks originated from these areas alone over the past year,” Shoshani noted.
Impact on Palestinian Communities
The operation has had a significant impact on Palestinian communities. Reports from the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and the Ministry of Health indicate that deaths occurred in towns like Tubas and Jenin. Video evidence obtained by CNN shows bulldozers destroying streets and moving through Tulkarem and Jenin. At least two Palestinians in Jenin were killed by Israeli military fire, while three others lost their lives in a drone strike on the outskirts of Jenin.
Medical Facilities Under Siege
The Palestinian Ministry of Health has raised alarms about the impact of the Israeli military’s operation on hospitals. Israeli forces have blocked access to medical facilities, obstructed ambulance movement, and surrounded key hospitals. “Dozens of patients are currently being treated in government, private, and charitable hospitals in Jenin,” the ministry stated, highlighting the threats to both patients and medical staff. Mahmoud Al-Saadi of the PRCS expressed concerns about the restrictions, saying, “Getting to the hospital in Jenin is difficult.”
Palestinian Response and Mobilization
The Islamic Jihad militant group condemned the Israeli military’s actions, describing them as an “open and undeclared war.” The Al-Quds Brigades, the group’s military wing, claimed to have shot down an Israeli drone near Jenin, although CNN could not verify this claim. Meanwhile, Hamas called for a “general mobilization” against the Israeli occupation, accusing the military of extensive destruction and aerial bombardment.
Historical Context and Ongoing Conflict
Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967, expanding Jewish settlements in the region, which are considered illegal under international law. Despite peace agreements in the 1990s, tensions have continued to rise. The Palestinian health ministry reported that 652 Palestinians, including 150 children, have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7. Armed Jewish settlers have also carried out attacks on Palestinian towns, adding to the unrest.
A Tense and Uncertain Future
The recent military operations signal a significant escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with devastating impacts on the ground. The international community, including organizations like the International Court of Justice, continues to call for an end to the occupation. However, with both sides showing no signs of backing down, the future remains tense and uncertain. The ongoing violence underscores the urgent need for dialogue and a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
