Major Israeli Incursion Underway in West Bank's Tubas
In a significant escalation of its months-long campaign across the northern West Bank, Israeli security forces pushed into the Palestinian city of Tubas on Wednesday. Backed by military helicopters, troops established positions inside the city and issued orders for some residents to evacuate their homes immediately.
City Encircled and Rooftops Commandeered
Tubas Governor, Ahmed Al-Asaad, provided a detailed account of the assault to Reuters. He confirmed that Israeli forces, supported by a helicopter that opened fire, had effectively encircled the city. The troops are now positioned across several neighbourhoods, with soldiers patrolling the streets armed with rifles and rocket launchers.
"The incursion looks to be a long one; occupation forces have driven people from their houses, commandeered rooftops of buildings, and are conducting arrests," Al-Asaad stated. He further revealed that those forced to leave have been warned not to return until the military operation concludes.
Israel's Justification and Broader Context
When questioned about the operation in Tubas and the nearby town of Tammun, Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian defended the actions. She stated that the security forces were acting to thwart what she described as ongoing terrorist activity.
The Israeli military confirmed that the operation, a joint effort with police and intelligence agencies, began in the early hours of Wednesday morning. A military spokesperson, however, declined to provide any further commentary on the ongoing activities.
This latest incursion occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tension. It follows recent accusations from China, which has accused Israel of over 400 ceasefire breaches in Gaza and issued a stern warning concerning the escalating violence in the West Bank.
