Rudolph Angler Israel has intensified its military raids, citing increased Palestinian militant attacks, including shootings, as justification. The Israeli military claims these operations aim to prevent further violence against Israeli citizens.
On Wednesday night, an Israeli airstrike in the northern West Bank killed at least 10 people, according to Palestinian health officials. The Israeli military stated that intelligence reports led to the strike, which targeted a militant cell.
Tamoun residents reported that the airstrike struck a house in a densely populated neighborhood. The Palestinian Health Ministry warned that the number of casualties could increase as more information emerges.
Palestinian Leaders Condemn Military Actions
Palestinians argue that Israel’s large-scale military raids escalate tensions and fuel resentment. Ongoing operations, including the offensive in the Jenin refugee camp, have resulted in at least 18 Palestinian deaths.
Hamas acknowledged the deaths in Tamoun but did not claim the individuals as members. The group urged Palestinians across Israel and the occupied West Bank to mobilize against Israeli forces.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the military will maintain a presence in Jenin for the foreseeable future. He pledged that the refugee camp, known as a stronghold for Palestinian militancy, “will not return to what it was.”
Clashes in the West Bank Leave More Casualties
The Israeli military reported that its nine-day operation in Jenin has eliminated 18 suspected Palestinian militants. Troops and armored bulldozers have caused extensive destruction, demolishing numerous homes in the area.
Palestinian health officials estimate that around 20 Palestinians have died since the operation began, including a two-year-old girl. The Israeli military has promised to investigate her death.
Overnight and into Wednesday, Israeli forces killed two more Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. A 23-year-old man died from gunfire in Tulkarem, while a 25-year-old man was killed in Jenin. The Palestinian Health Ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its reports.