Israel has launched its largest military operation in the occupied West Bank in decades, displacing tens of thousands of civilians. The offensive comes days after a ceasefire in Gaza took hold, and human rights groups have condemned the Israeli decision to halt aid entry into war-battered Gaza.
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a cross-border attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking civilian hostages. In response, Israel declared war on Hamas, launching a ground invasion that led to one of the largest displacements in the region since its creation in 1948.
A ceasefire deal was reached between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah in July 2024, but tensions have persisted. The Gaza Strip has been ravaged by conflict, with tens of thousands killed and half the population living in “famine-like conditions.” The United States supports Israel with military aid and has vetoed or abstained from UN ceasefire resolutions.
As the situation in Gaza remains dire, humanitarian groups are pushing for a ceasefire extension in exchange for the release of hostages. However, the Israeli government’s decision to halt aid entry into Gaza has been met with condemnation from Arab nations and human rights organizations.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/03/06/israel-military-west-bank-jenin-tulkarm