The Israeli military launched airstrikes in the West Bank city of Jenin, marking the third day of heavy fighting in the Palestinian territory. Israel stated that it targeted a terrorist cell, a tactic common in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza but rare in the West Bank. The raids have resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people, mostly militants, since late Tuesday. The Palestinians view these strikes as an attempt by Israel to expand the conflict beyond Gaza and maintain control over the West Bank.
Meanwhile, in the Gaza Strip, over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, with ongoing airstrikes causing civilian casualties. The Israeli military also struck a convoy carrying medical supplies and fuel to an Emirati hospital, claiming it was seized by gunmen, resulting in several deaths. The United Arab Emirates, a key donor to Gaza, did not immediately respond to the incident.
In the West Bank, Israeli forces killed three Palestinians, prompting criticism from the United States for attacks on UN vehicles and humanitarian organizations. The US called for an end to assaults on the UN and urged Israel to halt threatening rhetoric. The World Food Program has paused staff movements in Gaza due to safety concerns following the attacks on UN vehicles. Israel stated that the incidents were the result of communication errors.
The ongoing violence in Gaza and the West Bank, along with international condemnation, underscores the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
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