Israel has deployed tanks to the West Bank city of Jenin, marking the first such action in over two decades. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) justified the deployment as a necessary measure for an operation expected to last at least a year. This move comes amid uncertainty regarding the future of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Extended Military Operation in Urban Hotspots
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced on Sunday that military operations in the West Bank will continue to expand, with troops remaining in key urban hotspots throughout the year. Katz also confirmed that 40,000 displaced individuals would not be permitted to return to their homes until the operation concludes. The last instance of Israeli tanks rolling into Jenin was in 2002 during the Second Intifada, a period of intense Palestinian uprisings.
Escalating Violence and Rising Death Toll
The recent military operation in the West Bank was launched just two days after the Gaza ceasefire took effect on January 19. Reports indicate that over 50 people have been killed so far, with significant damage inflicted on roads and infrastructure near refugee camps. The situation is particularly volatile, as these refugee camps, initially established in 1948, have long been centers of Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation.
Terror Attack in Tel Aviv Adds to Growing Unrest
Tensions escalated further on Thursday when multiple bus explosions struck Tel Aviv. The explosives detonated prematurely, causing no casualties. Although Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, praised the attack, they did not officially claim responsibility.
Gaza Ceasefire Talks in Limbo
Meanwhile, negotiations over the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire remain stalled. The proposed phase includes a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages. Although discussions were set to begin this week, no formal agreements have been announced.
Netanyahu Signals Readiness for Renewed Conflict
On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel is prepared to resume hostilities in Gaza “at any moment.” He stressed that the war’s objectives would be met “whether through negotiation or other means.” In response, senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi asserted that there would be “no dialogue with Israel through mediators” until Palestinian prisoners are released, demanding Israel’s adherence to previous agreements.
As tensions surge in the region, the latest developments indicate that peace remains uncertain, and further escalations could be imminent.
