The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Sunday (local time) that it has killed 50 Palestinian militants since launching an offensive in the northern West Bank nearly two weeks ago, according to The Times of Israel.
IDF’s Military Operations
- 35 militants were killed in ground operations in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tamun.
- 15 others were killed in drone strikes.
- 100 suspected Palestinian militants have been detained.
- Over 40 weapons and 80 explosives have been confiscated.
The IDF also acknowledged mistakenly targeting civilians, including a toddler, during these operations.
Demolitions and ‘Operation Iron Wall’
As part of the ongoing military offensive, which began on January 21, the IDF has demolished 23 buildings in the Jenin refugee camps, claiming that they were used by militants. The operation is expected to continue for several more weeks.
Netanyahu’s Visit to the U.S.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu departed for the United States on Sunday, declaring that Israel has the power to “redraw the map of the Middle East”.
“The decisions we made in the war have already changed the face of the Middle East. Our decisions and the courage of our soldiers have redrawn the map. But I believe that working closely with President Trump, we can redraw it even further and for the better,” Netanyahu said in a post on X.
He emphasized the strong U.S.-Israel alliance, noting that his meeting with Trump in Washington is significant, as it is Trump’s first meeting with a foreign leader since assuming office.
The situation in the West Bank remains tense as military operations continue, raising concerns about the escalation of violence in the region.