Headlining a massive counterterrorism operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, Israeli forces, under the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have reported dealing significant blows to what Netanyahu referred to as a “terrorists’ nest.”

The major military operation, among the largest seen in West Bank for years, employed aerial bombardments and deployed hundreds of troops, in a bid to destroy command centers and seize substantial weaponry. This campaign led to deadly clashes, extensive destruction, and a heavy casualty count, marking a stark escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The northern city of Jenin was the primary target of this extensive operation. Armoured vehicles, army bulldozers, and drones were reportedly employed, leading to the evacuation of thousands from the Jenin refugee camp.

The evacuated sought shelter in schools and other facilities within the city, amidst the ensuing chaos. Describing the situation on the ground, director of the Palestinian Red Crescent in Jenin, Mahmoud al-Saadi, indicated that airstrikes and ground invasions were causing extensive damage, with smoke rising from multiple locations.

The Palestinian health ministry reported that the operation resulted in nine fatalities and injured about 100 individuals, with 20 in serious condition. This exceeded the casualty count from a similar raid in Jenin two weeks earlier, that notably involved the use of helicopter missile fire.

As the Israeli army spokesperson clarified, the operation was not intended for permanent occupation of the camp but was a preparatory move for potential prolonged combat situations.

The operation has drawn international attention and sparked a flurry of reactions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the unfolding violence and emphasized the necessity of abiding by international humanitarian law.

While the United States acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defense against terrorist groups, it also stressed the need to protect civilians. The Arab League has called for an emergency meeting to discuss the situation, while neighboring Jordan criticized the raid as a breach of international humanitarian law.

Under Netanyahu’s coalition government, including hard-right allies, the escalating violence and mounting tensions between Israelis and Palestinians underscore the urgent need for revitalized peace efforts.

  Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel, Jenin, Mahmoud al-Saadi, Palestine, West Bank