Country: occupied Palestinian territory
Source: Sari Global
Please refer to the attached file.
Weekly Round-Up
• Intensified Israeli Military Operations in Jenin: The Israeli Armed Forces (IAF) launched a major operation named “Iron Wall” in the Jenin refugee camp, resulting in at least 10 Palestinian fatalities and numerous injuries. The operation involved airstrikes and ground forces, leading to the displacement of hundreds of residents. Israeli authorities stated that the offensive targeted militants responsible for attacks on Israelis.
• Escalation of Settler-Related Violence: There was a notable increase in violent incidents involving Israeli settlers. In the villages of al-Funduq and Jinsafut, settlers reportedly torched vehicles and damaged properties. These attacks occurred amidst a backdrop of policy changes, including the easing of U.S. sanctions on certain settler groups, which some analysts believe has emboldened such actions.
• Ceasefire Implementation and Prisoner Exchanges: A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was implemented, leading to the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli hostages. While this development brought temporary relief, it also elicited mixed reactions among the Palestinian populace, with concerns about the sustainability of the ceasefire and the conditions of released individuals.
• Palestinian Authority’s Crackdown on Militancy: The Palestinian Authority (PA) intensified its operations against militant groups within the West Bank, particularly targeting factions in Jenin. This internal crackdown aimed to reassert PA control but also highlighted internal Palestinian tensions and the challenges the PA faces in maintaining order.
• International Reactions and Policy Shifts: The period saw significant international engagement, including U.S. diplomatic efforts to uphold the Gaza ceasefire and discussions regarding Israel’s military presence in Lebanon. Additionally, policy shifts, such as the U.S. easing sanctions on certain Israeli settler groups, influenced the dynamics on the ground, affecting both the political and security landscape of the West Bank.