Deadly Raids in West Bank Fuel Escalating Israeli-Palestinian Tensions

Nine Palestinians were killed in major Israeli military raids in Jenin, Tulkarm, and other areas of the West Bank. This operation marked one of the largest in months, targeting militant fighters. The escalation highlights ongoing conflicts in Gaza and tensions with Hezbollah. Civilians also suffer amid rising violence and continued military operations.

At least nine Palestinians were killed on Wednesday during major Israeli military raids in the flashpoint cities of Jenin and Tulkarm, as well as other areas in the occupied West Bank. This extensive operation, involving helicopters and drones, is one of the largest seen in the West Bank in recent months.

The raids followed a series of smaller operations aimed at quelling militant activity in the area. Concurrently, Israeli forces are engaged in battles against Hamas in Gaza and are facing heightened tensions with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement in southern Lebanon. The recent operation underlines the multiple security threats Israel has been dealing with since the onset of the Gaza war last year.

In the wake of the raids, the city of Jenin remained relatively quiet, although explosions could be heard in its refugee camp. Israeli military officials have justified the operation by citing a significant increase in militant activities in recent months, with over 150 attacks involving shootings or explosives reported from Tulkarm and Jenin in the past year.

(With inputs from agencies.)