Jenin, West Bank & Gaza – Israeli military forces launched a series of airstrikes and ground raids in Jenin early this morning as part of an ongoing operation against militant groups in the West Bank. The raids came amid escalating tensions as Israeli forces continue their siege and bombardment in Gaza, now in its third week, with casualties on both sides rising sharply.
The Jenin raids targeted suspected militant hideouts and weapons caches in the city’s refugee camp, a known stronghold of Palestinian fighters. According to Israeli officials, the operation is aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and preventing attacks against Israeli civilians. “Our actions are necessary to protect Israeli citizens from imminent threats,” said an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson.
However, local sources in Jenin reported that the raid caused significant damage to civilian homes, with several buildings destroyed and at least 10 Palestinians injured, including women and children. Palestinian officials condemned the attack as an unlawful act of aggression, further fueling tensions between Israel and Palestinian groups.
Simultaneously, in Gaza, the Israeli Air Force has intensified its strikes, targeting Hamas leadership and military infrastructure. The Israeli government has vowed to continue its operations until Hamas is incapacitated, despite growing international calls for a ceasefire. Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, with the death toll surpassing 500, including civilians and children.
In response to Israel’s actions, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the raids and siege, calling for the international community to intervene and halt the violence. “This is collective punishment against our people,” Abbas said in a statement. “The world must hold Israel accountable for its ongoing violations of international law.”
Protests erupted across the Palestinian territories, with demonstrators calling for an end to the Israeli attacks and the siege of Gaza. Regional leaders, including those from neighboring Arab countries, have expressed their concerns, but efforts to mediate a ceasefire remain at an impasse.
As the violence continues to escalate, the international community has increasingly urged both sides to return to negotiations, but the prospects for peace appear uncertain amid the ongoing conflict.
Al Jazeera English, The Jerusalem Post, Haaretz, Middle East Eye, Ma’an News Agency, B’Tselem, The National (UAE), The New Arab
