Israeli Forces Carry Out Airstrike on Terror Tunnel at Mosque in West Bank
Israeli forces launched an airstrike on Sunday, targeting a tunnel used by members of terror groups Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad at a mosque in the city of Jenin in the northern West Bank. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet security agency stated that the strike was carried out to prevent an imminent terror attack.
According to the joint statement by the IDF and Shin Bet, the al-Ansari mosque in Jenin was being used as an underground terror route and base for planning and carrying out attacks. The recent detonation of an explosive near Israeli troops along the West Bank security barrier was also connected to the terror operatives sheltering at the mosque.
The airstrike was conducted using an aircraft, although the exact type was not specified. It is believed to have been carried out by a fighter jet based on the type of munition used. If confirmed, it would be the first fighter jet strike in the West Bank in at least 20 years.
The al-Ansari mosque had previously been raided by Israeli forces during a major operation in Jenin over the summer. During the operation, terror infrastructure and armaments were discovered, including two interconnected tunnel openings.
Tensions have been escalating in the West Bank since Hamas gunmen entered southern Israel from Gaza on October 7. Israel has launched a campaign to eliminate the terror group, resulting in over 4,300 people killed in airstrikes in Gaza according to health authorities in the Hamas-run Strip. Hamas has called for support from Palestinians in the West Bank.
Clashes between IDF forces and Palestinians have been occurring in the West Bank, along with attempted terror attacks. The Palestinian Authority health ministry reported at least 90 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces and settlers since October 7.
In response to the situation, Israeli forces have made numerous arrests in the West Bank, with over 670 wanted Palestinians detained, including over 450 affiliated with Hamas. Additionally, the IDF demolished the home of a Hamas terrorist charged with killing an American-Israeli citizen.
Israel has tightened security measures in the West Bank, closing crossings and checkpoints to prevent further attacks. The country is concerned about the potential escalation of the conflict, including the involvement of Hezbollah, an Iran-backed terror organization based in Lebanon.
Agencies contributed to this report.