Israeli raids and airstrikes across the north of the occupied West Bank have resulted in the deaths of at least 10 Palestinians, according to the Red Crescent. This comes in the midst of a “major” Israeli offensive during the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, which began after a Hamas attack on 7 October. The Israeli military (IDF) has raided Palestinian communities in the West Bank, leading to over 640 Palestinian deaths, including more than 100 children.
The latest operation in the West Bank is expected to last several days, with casualties reported in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas. The IDF claimed the operation was to thwart terrorism in the area and detained several “wanted Palestinians.” Palestinian news agency Wafa reported a major offensive in Tulkarm, with hospitals being besieged and movement restricted.
Alongside the military operation, Israeli forces have deployed bulldozers to destroy Palestinian infrastructure, further exacerbating the crisis in the West Bank. The situation has led to widespread concern among humanitarian organizations and UN officials, with calls for a humanitarian pause to enable the vaccination of children against polio.
As the conflict escalates, reports indicate increased tensions and the potential for a broader war in the Middle East, with Iran and Hezbollah posing significant threats. The international community, including the Irish taoiseach, has condemned the violence and disruptions to aid operations in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
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