The recent escalation in violence in the West Bank is part of a larger conflict that has intensified since early October 2023, with significant casualties reported on both sides.
The actions of Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank have raised concerns among international observers and humanitarian organizations, prompting calls for accountability and a ceasefire.
Israeli occupation forces conducted raids in the cities of Tubas and Qalqilya in the occupied West Bank on October 18, 2024, leading to violent clashes with Palestinian resistance fighters. Reports indicate that at least two Palestinians were arrested during these incursions, which were met with armed resistance from various Palestinian groups, including the Al-Quds Brigades and the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades. These groups claimed to have engaged in fierce battles against the Israeli forces, using explosive devices and gunfire against military vehicles.
The confrontations in Tubas included the detonation of explosive devices targeting an Israeli military bulldozer, while in Qalqilya, a young Palestinian man was reportedly assaulted and arrested by Israeli forces. These incidents are part of a broader pattern of violence, as recent reports indicate that over 700 Palestinians have been killed and approximately 6,250 injured since the escalation of conflict began on October 7, 2023, according to Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of UNRWA.
Additionally, violent clashes and assaults in other areas of the West Bank, such as Beit Furik, have resulted in injuries among Palestinians, highlighting the ongoing tensions and violence in the region.
