Israeli Military Conducts Operation in Jenin, West Bank with Reports of Airstrikes
Early Monday morning, Israeli military forces launched a major operation in the West Bank city of Jenin, targeting the city’s restive refugee camp. Reports indicate that airstrikes were carried out on multiple targets.
The Palestinian Authority health ministry reported that three people were killed and at least 13 others were wounded in the strikes. Large numbers of Israeli ground forces were seen entering the city from various directions. Three Palestinians are listed in serious condition.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed their involvement in the operation, stating that “security forces are now engaged in a widescale effort to thwart terror throughout Jenin.” They acknowledged striking “terror infrastructure” in the city but did not comment on whether the Air Force was involved.
The military said that their targets included a joint war room serving armed groups in the city and the so-called Jenin Battalion, which served as an observation post and gathering place for armed terrorists.
Israeli officials described the operation as an attempt to end Jenin’s role as a sanctuary city for terrorists. The operation will continue for as long as necessary.
Residents of Jenin received text messages urging them to remain indoors, while members of armed groups received messages urging them to surrender. A local Islamic Jihad wing claimed responsibility for opening fire on Israeli troops and targeting military vehicles with explosive devices.
Meanwhile, in the Gaza Strip, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed solidarity with Jenin and warned of potential retaliation. Security forces are preparing for possible rocket fire from the Strip.
In an unrelated incident near al-Bireh, a 21-year-old Palestinian man was shot dead by Israeli troops. The incident is under investigation.
Previous incidents, including a drone strike on Palestinian gunmen and a military raid in Jenin, have increased tensions in the area. Last week, Palestinians attempted to launch rockets at Israeli towns, but they landed in Palestinian-controlled territory.
The IDF considers the northern West Bank, especially Jenin, as a hotbed of terrorism. The area has seen a high number of attacks by residents.
Israeli Ambassador Mike Herzog commented on the situation, stating that “Jenin has become a major hub of terrorism” and emphasized that no nation would sit idly by while terrorists strike its citizens.
Tensions between Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank have been high for the past year and a half. The Israeli military has been conducting nightly raids in response to deadly terror attacks. Since the beginning of this year, Palestinian attacks have killed 24 people, while Israeli security forces have killed 134 West Bank Palestinians during clashes or while carrying out attacks.