Israeli forces have killed at least 10 Palestinians during a major military operation in the occupied West Bank, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the territory this year. The raid targeted the Jenin refugee camp, a known stronghold of Palestinian militant groups.
The Israeli military confirmed the operation, stating it was conducting "counter-terrorism" activities against Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets. Palestinian health officials reported that 20 people were wounded in addition to the fatalities, with several in critical condition.
Escalating Violence Across Territories
The West Bank violence comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, where the death toll has surpassed 37,000 Palestinians according to local health authorities. The conflict began with Hamas's October 7th attack on southern Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken.
Witnesses in Jenin described intense fighting, with Israeli bulldozers destroying infrastructure and army vehicles blocking access to hospitals. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported difficulties in reaching the wounded due to the military blockade.
International Response and Diplomatic Efforts
The United Nations human rights office expressed alarm at the escalating violence, particularly the use of military tactics in densely populated civilian areas. UN officials called for immediate de-escalation and protection of non-combatants.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken continues to push for a ceasefire agreement, recently meeting with Israeli officials to discuss a three-phase plan that would include hostage releases and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The proposed deal faces significant challenges, with Hamas demanding a permanent ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza—conditions that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has thus far rejected.
Regional Tensions and Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has sparked regional tensions, with Hezbollah in Lebanon exchanging near-daily fire with Israeli forces along the northern border. The group's leader has warned that nowhere in Israel would be safe in the event of a full-scale war.
In Gaza, the humanitarian situation remains dire. UN agencies report widespread displacement, with most of the population lacking adequate shelter, food, and medical supplies. The World Health Organization has documented over 400 attacks on healthcare facilities since the conflict began.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the death toll rises on both sides, with no immediate end to the violence in sight.
