A Palestinian man was killed and another wounded early Sunday morning during a series of Israeli military raids and incursions across the occupied West Bank. The incidents occurred amidst heightened tensions and ongoing settler activity in the region.
According to reports, Israeli forces stormed the Askar refugee camp, east of Nablus, resulting in the death of one Palestinian and injuries to another. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed the casualties, stating that Israeli gunfire was the cause.
Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli military operations included incursions into the city of Nablus and the entrance of the Balata refugee camp, east of the city. Local sources reported heavy military presence and heightened security measures during these operations.
In Hebron, the Israeli military imposed a strict siege on neighborhoods surrounding the Old City, coinciding with settler celebrations of what they refer to as “Sarah’s Sabbath.” This siege has reportedly paralyzed the movement of approximately 4,000 Palestinians. Settlers have erected tents in the Old City’s streets and the Ibrahimi Mosque plaza in preparation for the gathering of thousands of settlers.
During a raid in the eastern district of Tulkarm, located north of the West Bank, Israeli forces arrested a young Palestinian man.
Political Pressure Within Israel
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich recently stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must formulate a firm response that conveys to the world that a Palestinian state will never be established. These comments reflect the increasing pressure from the far-right wing of the Israeli government to solidify a stance against any political process that could lead to the creation of a Palestinian state.
Similarly, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called on Netanyahu to clarify that Israel will not allow the establishment of a Palestinian state in any form. Ben-Gvir asserted that his party, “Jewish Power,” will not be part of any government that agrees to a Palestinian state.
The West Bank has witnessed a surge in violence.Since October 2023, Israeli forces and settlers have killed over 1000 Palestinians and injured thousands more. Additionally, over 20,000 Palestinians, including many children, have been detained.
