- A major military operation was launched by the Israeli forces in Jenin, an occupied West Bank city, leading to intense fire exchange between them and Palestinian militants. The operation, which began with drone strikes, led to the death of nine Palestinians, and over 100 were injured.
- Israel has justified the operation as a response to Jenin being a stronghold for Palestinian militants and a "refuge for terrorism", whereas Palestinians are accusing Israel of committing a war crime.
- The Israeli military hasn't provided an exact timeline for ending the operation, which could last from hours to a few days. This operation is reportedly one of the most extensive in the region in years.
What instigated the current clashes in Jenin?
In the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, there have been intense exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and armed Palestinian militants. The Israeli military initiated what seems to be one of the most extensive operations in the area in recent years with drone strikes. The operation has led to nine Palestinian deaths and over 100 injuries. Israel has stated that the goal of this operation is to end Jenin's status as a "refuge for terrorism". On the other hand, Palestinians have accused Israel of committing a war crime.
What has been the impact on the residents of Jenin?
The Palestinian Red Crescent states that its crews have evacuated 3,000 people, including patients and the elderly, from the camp to hospitals. Many people were detained by Israeli forces in their homes since the operation began, without being given or allowed any food or drink. Additionally, the Israeli military has cut off telephone communications and the electricity supply to the camp, adding to the challenges faced by residents and medical teams trying to reach those injured.
What is the historical context behind this operation?
Jenin has been a stronghold for a new generation of Palestinian militants who are deeply frustrated with the Palestinian Authority's aging leadership and the restrictions of the Israeli occupation. In 2002, during the second Palestinian intifada, Israeli forces launched a full-scale incursion in Jenin. In the past year, there have been repeated Israeli military raids due to deadly attacks by local Palestinians on Israelis and those who have sought refuge in the city.
What has been the global response to this operation?
The reaction to the operation has been mixed. The Palestinian Authority Prime Minister, Mohammed Shtayyeh, expressed outrage at the operation, stating that it appears to be an attempt to erase the refugee camp and displace the residents. Meanwhile, Jordan has described the operation as "a clear violation of international humanitarian law". On the other hand, the U.S. has expressed its support for "Israel's security and right to defend its people against Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and other terrorist groups".
What are the possible future consequences of this operation?
Although Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said the plan was not to expand the military operation outside of Jenin, there is potential for wider escalation. Palestinian protests have already reached the Hamas-governed Gaza Strip. The longer the operation continues in Jenin, the greater the risk of more severe escalation becomes. This operation comes in the context of a surge of violence in the West Bank in recent months, adding to the volatile situation in the region.