Escalating Violence in the West Bank Amid Israeli Operations
Israeli occupation forces have intensified their operations in the West Bank, leading to tragic consequences for the Palestinian population. In less than 24 hours, two Palestinians were martyred, with reports indicating that the Israeli military is conducting widespread raids across various towns. The Palestinian Ministry of Health confirmed that a 17-year-old boy, Hassan Yousef Al-Shaer, was killed by Israeli gunfire near Ni'lin, west of Ramallah. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and his family awaits the return of his body.
Another victim, Samir Amar, aged 55, was shot dead by Israeli forces while attempting to cross into Palestine for work near Tulkarm. The ongoing violence has resulted in the death of 706 Palestinians in the West Bank since the onset of the Israeli war on Gaza, which has now reached its 348th day.
Clashes Erupt in Qabatiya as Resistance Fighters Respond
Fierce clashes erupted in the town of Qabatiya, located in the Jenin district, as Israeli forces launched a significant operation. Reports indicate that the Jenin Battalion of the Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Jihad Movement, engaged in heavy fighting with Israeli troops. The fighters successfully targeted a military vehicle with an explosive device, resulting in direct hits on the occupying forces. This escalation highlights the ongoing resistance against the Israeli military presence in Palestinian territories, particularly in areas like Qabatiya, where tensions have been notably high.
Settler Violence and Raids Continue Unabated
The situation in the West Bank is further exacerbated by increasing settler violence. Approximately 90 extremist settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque under heavy police protection, performing provocative rituals and prayers. This incident is part of a broader pattern of settler incursions into the mosque, which have become more frequent as the Jewish holiday season approaches. Additionally, Israeli forces conducted raids in the Al-Fawar camp, arresting 20 Palestinians and causing significant destruction to homes. The United Nations has condemned these actions, urging Israel to cease the forced transfer of Palestinian communities and to protect them from ongoing settler attacks.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the Palestinian community faces mounting challenges, with calls for international intervention growing louder.
