An Israeli military operation in a built-up refugee camp in the occupied West Bank has killed at least seven people, according to Palestinian health officials, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a new “large scale” offensive in the area. The IDF launched its new operation hours after President Trump rescinded Biden-era executive orders that had authorized U.S. sanctions against people who undermine peace in the occupied West Bank.
Netanyahu called the operation “Iron Wall,” saying it is aimed at eradicating terrorism in Jenin and strengthening security in the region. The move comes amid rising violence in the West Bank, with Israel claiming to operate against Iranian-backed militancy.
The Palestinian Health Ministry reports over 800 people have been killed in Israeli raids in the West Bank since the war in Gaza began after Hamas’ October 2023 attacks. Several Israelis have also been killed recently in attacks by Palestinians.
President Trump’s decision follows criticism from the Biden administration, which had imposed sanctions on extremist settlers accused of using violence against Palestinians. The move is seen as a significant shift towards Israel’s territorial claims, with Netanyahu previously saying he believed Israel could work closely with President-elect Trump to promote annexation of the West Bank in 2025.
The settlements in the occupied West Bank are considered a barrier to a potential two-state solution, with more Israeli Jews living in the territory making it less likely for Israel to abandon control and allow the land to become part of a Palestinian state.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-west-bank-offensive-deaths-palestinians-trump-sanctions-settlers