The Biden administration has asked Israel to approve military assistance to the Palestinian Authority’s security forces as they conduct a wide-ranging operation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, according to officials.
The operation aims to regain control of the city of Jenin and its refugee camp from militants affiliated with groups like Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The PA launched the operation out of fear that Islamist militants could try to overthrow the authority, following events in Syria.
The security situation in Jenin has been deteriorating for months, with local militants taking control of the refugee camp more than a year ago. The latest development saw at least three militants killed and about 20 people wounded, as well as several Palestinian security forces members injured.
US officials have asked Israel to approve the delivery of military equipment, including ammunition, helmets, and night vision gear, to the PA’s security forces. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced resistance to approving the aid due to its potential implications for the Palestinian Authority.
The operation is seen as a test of the PA’s ability to maintain control in the face of growing militant activity. If successful, it could send a message to the incoming Trump administration that the PA is a reliable partner. However, if it fails, it could lead to further instability and potentially even the collapse of the authority.
The US has expressed concerns over Israel’s potential reluctance to allow tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians from northern Gaza to return, despite formal assurances made by Israeli authorities last week.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2024/12/15/us-west-bank-palestinians-israel-military