Two Martyrs and Dozens Detained Amid Israeli Raids in the West Bank
On October 1, 2024, Israeli occupation forces launched a significant raid in Nablus, resulting in the deaths of two Palestinians, Abdul Hakim Mamoun Abdul Hamid Shahin (33) and Diaa Hani Abdul Rahman Duweikat (25). The operation, which occurred in the Old City and Balata refugee camp, also left several others injured and led to the arrest of at least 30 individuals, including a child and former prisoners. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported the fatalities, while the Palestinian Red Crescent indicated that their paramedics faced gunfire when attempting to assist the injured.
The ongoing violence has seen a tragic rise in casualties, with the number of martyrs in the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem reaching 720 since the escalation of hostilities began on October 7, 2023. This includes the heartbreaking loss of 160 children.
Arrests and Demolitions
The Israeli military's actions have not only resulted in fatalities but have also included widespread arrests. A joint statement from the Prisoners Club and the Commission of Prisoners and Freed Prisoners Affairs reported that over 30 Palestinians were detained during the recent raids, which targeted various areas, particularly in Ramallah and Bethlehem. The arrests are part of a broader campaign that has seen more than 11,000 individuals detained since the onset of the conflict in Gaza, affecting all segments of Palestinian society.
In addition to the arrests, Israeli forces conducted demolitions of Palestinian homes in the Jordan Valley and Hebron, citing the lack of building permits as justification. Eyewitnesses described a scene of destruction as military bulldozers razed homes in Al-Duyouk Al-Tahta and At-Tuwana, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Daily Incursions and Escalating Tensions
The situation in the West Bank remains tense, with daily incursions by Israeli forces into Palestinian towns and villages. These operations are frequently accompanied by confrontations, resulting in injuries and significant property damage. The escalation of violence in the West Bank coincides with ongoing military actions in the Gaza Strip, reflecting a broader cycle of conflict that continues to impact the lives of countless Palestinians.
