RAMALLAH, West Bank – Ten Hamas fighters were reported killed during a recent Israeli military operation in the West Bank, with the city of Jenin being sealed off, a long-time militant stronghold. This operation, which also included airstrikes in Tulkarem and the Al-Faraa refugee camp, resulted in the deaths of 10 Hamas fighters. Palestinian health officials have stated that at least 652 Palestinians in the West Bank have been killed by Israeli fire since the conflict in Gaza began nearly 11 months ago.
In a separate incident, the body of an Israeli soldier who was abducted and killed by Hamas on October 7 was recovered and brought back to Israel. Israeli authorities praised the soldier’s courage and sacrifice, noting that he fell in a heroic battle while defending Israeli communities near Gaza.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military published the findings of an investigation into a deadly rampage by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, acknowledging that the initial response was not decisive enough. The incident, which took place in the village of Jit, resulted in the death of a Palestinian and raised concerns about escalating settler violence in the region.
Concerns over Israel’s security operation in the West Bank were also raised by the U.N. human rights office, expressing worry that the situation could worsen further in Palestinian areas. The use of airstrikes and military weapons was criticized for violating human rights norms, with calls for Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law.
In another development, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on a West Bank Jewish settler group and the security chief of another group involved in violence against Palestinian civilians. The U.S. State Department emphasized the importance of holding individuals and entities accountable for violence in the region.
The article also reported on the rescue of an Israeli hostage from Gaza, as well as Israeli airstrikes in Gaza that resulted in civilian casualties. Efforts to assist a Greek-flagged tanker ablaze in the Red Sea were hindered by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
Finally, ongoing talks aimed at achieving a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in the 10-month conflict in Gaza have shifted to Doha after negotiations in Cairo. The involvement of key mediators and officials from various countries underscores the complexity and urgency of resolving the conflict.