Israel has escalated its military operations in the West Bank, conducting controlled demolitions that destroyed at least 20 buildings in Jenin, according to reports. The airstrikes come as part of an operation dubbed Iron Wall, aimed at battling local militants.
Separately, Hezbollah is set to hold a public funeral procession for its slain leader, Hasan Nasrallah, on February 23. A new chief has been appointed, and the group will highlight Israel’s alleged procrastination in implementing humanitarian provisions under the Gaza ceasefire deal.
In Gaza, an Israeli airstrike targeted a car trying to reach the north of the enclave, resulting in injuries to five people, including one child who later died. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden welcomed the release of American citizen Keith Siegel from Hamas captivity and expressed hope for the release of additional hostages held by the group.
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened after eight months, allowing medical evacuations of patients. The move comes as Israeli forces seized and closed the crossing in May.
These developments highlight the complexities of the ongoing conflict in the region, with Israel and Hamas engaging in ceasefire talks while also battling local militants in the West Bank.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/02/02/israel-war-gaza-ceasefire-hostages-news-hamas