Israel Launches Major Military Operation in West Bank

The Israeli military has launched a significant operation in the West Bank, resulting in the deaths of at least 17 Palestinians, including key militant leader Muhammad Jaber, over two days of intense raids in Tulkarm and Jenin. The operation marks the largest Israeli military action in the region since the Second Intifada, aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure amid escalating violence linked to the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Israeli officials assert that the operation is necessary to prevent attacks on Israelis, while Palestinian groups warn it may exacerbate tensions and hinder access to essential services. Health authorities report rising casualties, with conflicting figures regarding the total number of deaths resulting from these incursions. As the military operations continue, there are fears of increased violence in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip, where the death toll has also been rising dramatically since October. The situation remains tense, with exchanges of gunfire reported and ongoing military presence in several Palestinian communities.