Israel Launches Major Jenin Operation Amid Fragile Gaza Ceasefire, Ten Killed, Dozens Injured
January 23, 2025Local reports indicate that armored vehicles and bulldozers have been deployed in Jenin, while ambulances have been blocked from entering the area.
Wissam Bakr, head of Khalil Suleiman hospital, highlighted the dire situation with 600 medical staff and patients trapped inside, facing severe shortages of food and water.
Rights groups have raised alarms for civilians caught in the crossfire, with some residents reporting that they were directed to evacuate by drones.
Witnesses described the atmosphere in Jenin camp as dire, with military bulldozers entering the area and residents subjected to searches and potential arrests.
The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that their ambulances were unable to reach many casualties lying in the streets around Jenin due to the ongoing siege.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing pressure from far-right allies following a recent truce and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas, which is expected to last at least six weeks.
The resignation of coalition member Itamar Ben-Gvir and threats from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to leave could jeopardize Netanyahu's parliamentary majority and potentially lead to early elections.
In the context of the ongoing conflict, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Israel to exercise maximum restraint during this tumultuous period.
Amidst the violence, the Palestinian Emergency Services reported ongoing searches for thousands of Palestinians believed to be trapped under rubble in Gaza, following extensive devastation observed during the ceasefire.
Israel has initiated a significant military operation in Jenin, West Bank, shortly after a ceasefire commenced in the Gaza Strip, resulting in ten fatalities and over 40 injuries, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
The situation in Jenin is further complicated by increased violence and Israeli checkpoints, with recent attacks by Palestinian gunmen leading to the deaths of three Israelis.
Kamal Abu al-Rub, the governor of Jenin, described the conditions as 'very difficult,' reporting ongoing gunfire and explosions.
Summary based on 42 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Jan 21, 2025
Eight Palestinians killed as Israel launches operation in JeninThe Guardian • Jan 22, 2025
Israeli forces surround Palestinian hospital and refugee camp in West BankThe Guardian • Jan 21, 2025
Israeli security forces launch operation in West Bank city of JeninThe Guardian • Jan 23, 2025
Thursday briefing: With a new wave of violence, the West Bank is on edge