Israeli authorities conducted an aerial counterterrorism operation in the Al-Faraa refugee camp, resulting in the death of four armed militants. The Palestinian health ministry reported at least nine people killed overnight, with Israeli forces surrounding the area and blocking access to hospitals. Nihad Al-Shawish of the Nour Shams camp in Tulkarem stated that civilians were warned to evacuate but it was not mandatory.
Israeli Foreign Minister Katz compared the raids in the West Bank to the ongoing war in Gaza, emphasizing the need to address the threat posed by “Islamic-Iranian terrorist infrastructures.” He accused Iran of funding and arming terrorists in the West Bank and setting up an eastern front against Israel. Israel frequently blames Iran for violence in the region, as well as tensions with Hezbollah and Hamas.
The raids occurred amidst heightened tensions in the region, with Iran having promised retaliation against Israel for the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh. Hostilities at Israel’s border with Lebanon also escalated after the assassination of commander Fuad Shukr, prompting clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Israel views the situation as a “full-fledged war” that must be won.
The situation highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and militant groups in the region, with Iran’s involvement and support of these groups exacerbating tensions. Israeli authorities are taking aggressive measures to counter the threat posed by these terrorist infrastructures.
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