An Israeli drone launched a deadly attack in the Jenin refugee camp on Tuesday evening, firing three missiles at a group of individuals near a traffic roundabout. The assault resulted in the deaths of six people, including a 15-year-old boy. Among the deceased were five others aged between 23 and 34, with three brothers counted among the victims. This incident forms part of a broader pattern of violence amid ongoing tensions in the occupied West Bank.
The attack in Jenin is one of several recent aggressive measures taken by Israeli forces. Since October 7, 2023, almost 800 Palestinians have been killed, and several thousand arrested across the occupied West Bank. Earlier this month, another Israeli drone strike in Tammun town tragically claimed the lives of two Palestinian children and a 23-year-old from the same family.
The Palestinian Authority (PA) has responded to the growing violence by suspending Al Jazeera's operations in the occupied West Bank. Additionally, they have launched a military operation in Jenin targeting Palestinian resistance fighters, which has led to more than a dozen deaths. This action reflects the deep-rooted conflict within the region, exacerbated by continued Israeli military raids on local communities.
"Israel's defence minister has said that Israel will continue this policy across the West Bank." – Hamdah Salhut
The PA's actions, however, have sparked anger among locals. Many believe that the Palestinian Authority should withdraw from Jenin and collaborate with other Palestinian factions to counter the Israeli occupation. Hassan Khraisheh, deputy speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council, expressed the sentiment shared by many residents.
"This is a clear message from the Israeli occupation that every Palestinian is a target." – Hassan Khraisheh
"No one is protected against Israeli attacks." – Hassan Khraisheh
The Jenin Battalion of Palestinian Islamic Jihad has agreed to a local initiative to cease internal Palestinian conflicts and halt the bloodshed amongst themselves. However, as violence continues to escalate, many fear that peace remains distant.
