Israel sent tanks into the West Bank on Sunday for the first time since 2002, as part of a plan to combat terrorism. The move comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said troops will remain in the territory for an extended period, possibly a year, citing security concerns. He warned that Palestinians who fled cannot return and that terrorism will not be tolerated.
The deployment follows a delicate ceasefire deal reached last month between Hamas and Israel. In exchange for releasing over 600 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas freed six hostages on Saturday.
The conflict began in October 2023, when Hamas launched an assault on southern Israel, killing over 1,100 people. The situation remains tense, with both sides maintaining their positions.
Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will remain as long as needed to ensure security. However, the Palestinian foreign ministry has called the move a “dangerous escalation” of the situation in the West Bank.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israel-moves-tanks-west-bank-first-time-since-2002