Israel Expands West Bank Offensive, Troops to Remain Yearlong

Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz announced an extended military presence in the West Bank, specifically in refugee camps, for the coming year. This decision follows a significant military campaign that has led to the evacuation of around 40,000 Palestinians from camps in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Nur Shams, with widespread destruction of infrastructure reported. The Israeli military is deploying tanks in Jenin, marking the first time such equipment has been used in the area since the second intifada, raising concerns about escalating violence. Katz emphasized the goal is to prevent the return of residents and the resurgence of terrorism. Palestinian officials, including spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh, condemned the military actions, calling them dangerous escalations that threaten stability. The ongoing operations follow recent explosions on buses near Tel Aviv, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to call for intensified military actions in the region.