Qabatiya, Occupied West Bank – Dozens of Israeli military vehicles entered the town of Qabatiya, south of Jenin, early Saturday following a deadly attack near Beit She’an (Bisan) in northern Israel. The incursion involved ground troops, air support, and the deployment of heavy equipment.
Eyewitnesses reported that Israeli helicopters opened fire with machine guns into open areas within Qabatiya. Simultaneously, military bulldozers began blocking internal roads, restricting movement within the town. The Israeli military has yet to release a statement clarifying the rules of engagement.
According to a statement released by the Israeli army, the operation involves paratroopers, the Duvdevan unit, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) personnel, and prison services. The stated objective is to “thwart terrorism” in the wake of the attack near Beit She’an, in which two Israelis were killed.
The Israeli military confirmed that forces raided the home of the alleged perpetrator and are preparing it for demolition. They are also conducting searches of additional locations in the area to apprehend suspected accomplices and uncover weapons.
Reports indicate that the father of the alleged attacker, identified as Younis Abu al-Rub, 37, was arrested during the raid on the family home. Military sources claim that the Shin Bet is interrogating members of the Abu al-Rub family following the operation in Qabatiya.
Local sources report that approximately 44 military vehicles and several bulldozers entered Qabatiya, imposing a curfew and deploying soldiers throughout the streets. Snipers have reportedly taken positions on the rooftops of several buildings. Main roads leading into and out of the town have also been closed.
The recent events have reignited calls from right-wing Israeli politicians for the implementation of the death penalty for individuals convicted of carrying out attacks against Israelis.
