Israeli Forces Conduct Large-Scale Arrests in West Bank Amid Escalating Violence
In a significant escalation of tensions, Israeli occupation forces arrested approximately 60 Palestinians during a large-scale raid in the town of Haris, located west of Salfit in the central West Bank. This operation is part of a broader pattern of raids and arrests across several towns, including Balata camp in Nablus, Dura, Al-Rihiya, and Al-Fawar camp south of Hebron, as well as Beit Liqya and Imrin in the Ramallah district.
The situation intensified in Balata camp, where violent clashes erupted between Palestinian resistance fighters and Israeli forces. Reports indicate that resistance fighters engaged the occupation forces by opening fire and detonating an explosive device targeting a military vehicle. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that a young man sustained injuries from the Israeli army's gunfire during these confrontations.
In addition to the clashes in Nablus, the Israeli forces also stormed the city of Hebron, leading to further confrontations in the village of Al-Rihiya. Here, Israeli soldiers deployed throughout the village, using live ammunition, sound bombs, and tear gas against Palestinian citizens. The ongoing military operations included raids in the village of Tabqa and Khallet al-May, as well as extensive searches in Husan, west of Bethlehem.
Further clashes were reported in Tubas, where resistance fighters confronted the occupation army. Additionally, two Palestinians were injured by Israeli gunfire in Arabuna, east of Jenin, during an operation targeting a wanted individual.
Settler Violence Escalates in Conjunction with Military Operations
Amidst the military actions, settler violence has also surged in the West Bank. Settlers reportedly stormed the Khalayel Al-Loz and Khallet Al-Nahla areas in Bethlehem, damaging Palestinian farms. In Hebron, settlers raised Israeli flags in various neighborhoods, including Jaber and Salaymeh, in preparation for upcoming Jewish holidays. This has led to increased restrictions on Palestinian residents, who are being prevented from accessing their homes and facing heightened military presence.
The Israeli occupation army's aggressive actions in the West Bank coincide with ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in the deaths of over 683 Palestinians since October 7. This continuous cycle of violence and retaliation raises concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region.
