Islamic Jihad Accuses Israel of Extermination Campaign in West Bank
The Islamic Jihad Movement has condemned the recent Israeli airstrike on the Tulkarm refugee camp, labeling it as part of a broader "war of extermination" against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of 18 Palestinians and numerous injuries, marking a significant escalation in violence not seen since the Second Intifada in 2000. The bombing targeted residential areas, including a popular café, prompting immediate responses from civil defense and ambulance services to assist the wounded.
The group asserts that the Israeli actions are reminiscent of the atrocities witnessed in Gaza and Lebanon, further urging Palestinians to resist in defense of their homeland. The ongoing conflict has already claimed the lives of 723 Palestinians, including 160 children, with over 6,200 injuries reported since the escalation began. Hamas has echoed these sentiments, calling the airstrike a dangerous escalation and urging West Bank residents to participate in protests against the occupation.
In a broader context, the violence in the West Bank comes as part of a continuing genocidal campaign in the Gaza Strip, where over 138,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed or injured, predominantly affecting women and children. The destruction of essential infrastructure in Gaza has raised international concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
As tensions rise, both Hamas and Islamic Jihad are rallying support for increased resistance efforts, urging the Palestinian populace to unite against what they describe as the brutal occupation. This situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalation as both sides prepare for ongoing confrontations.