Photo: 123RF/bumbledee

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Tuesday launched a large-scale operation called “Iron Wall” against terrorist groups in Jenin. The operation involves the use of tanks and aircraft, and its scale demonstrates the seriousness of the challenges in the region, The Jerusalem Post reports.

Prior to the operation, Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces withdrew from Jenin, ending their month-long campaign against local terrorist cells. The IDF praised the PA’s efforts, noting that its forces operated deeper than usual, even entering the Jenin refugee camp, where they had not been present for years.

Reasons for the operation

Despite the PA’s efforts, the 6 January attack near Kedumim, organised by terrorists from Jenin, prompted the Israeli defence establishment to conclude that more decisive action was needed. Local terrorist groups responsible for a series of attacks on PA forces, vehicles and even headquarters continued to pose a threat to regional stability.

Statements by the Israeli leadership

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stressed that the operation in Jenin is aimed not only at destroying terrorist infrastructure, but also at demonstrating force to prevent possible provocations by Hamas and other groups.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that this is just one of many operations aimed at strengthening security in the region.
“We are acting systematically and decisively against the Iranian axis, wherever it manifests itself: in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen or the West Bank,” Netanyahu said.

After the start of the operation, Hamas called for full mobilisation in the West Bank, demonstrating the escalation of tensions in the region.