Israel's New West Bank Strategy: Learning from Gaza

In a recent shift, Israel's military is taking a new approach to their operations in the West Bank, inspired by their experiences in Gaza. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a new operation called "Iron Wall" in the Jenin refugee camp. This move comes just days after a ceasefire in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already started this operation, and Israeli forces are present in large numbers. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has accused the Palestinian Authority (PA) of helping Israel in this operation. They say the PA assisted by isolating Jenin camp for over 40 days. Israel's main goal is to prevent terror groups from threatening their citizens. They're particularly concerned about Iran's influence in the region. An Iranian official recently warned that resistance to Israel will continue as long as there is occupation. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported hitting more than 10 terrorists and dismantling explosives in Jenin. The Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed that nine people were killed, ranging in age from 16 to 57. The situation in Jenin is severe. Dr. Wissam Bakr, director of Jenin Hospital, reported that the hospital is under complete siege by Israeli military. Staff members have been injured, and roads are blocked, making it impossible for ambulances to reach the hospital. The West Bank is home to over 500, 000 Jewish settlers, despite international law considering these settlements illegal. The Palestinian foreign ministry condemned Israel's "collective punishment" by sealing off all entrances to Palestinian areas.