For the First Time Since 2002, IDF Tanks Enter Jenin in the ‘West Bank’

For the first time since Operation Defensive Shield carried out in 2002, IDF tanks have begun operating inside the Jenin refugee camp, the IDF Spokesperson announced this morning (Sunday).

According to reports, a single tank platoon has been deployed, but the use of armored vehicles in a densely built area with a high terrorist presence represents a significant boost to the ongoing military operation. The IDF is preparing for an extended stay in the refugee camp, with a permanent battalion stationed in Jenin indefinitely.

Operations in Jenin | Photo: IDF Spokesperson

Katz: The IDF is Preparing for a Prolonged Presence

Defense Minister Israel Katz commented on the IDF’s expansion of Operation Iron Wall: “The IDF is expanding its operations in northern Samaria and, as of last night, is also operating in the town of Kabatiya as part of Operation Iron Wall to counter terrorism in Judea and Samaria. It is reinforcing its forces with armored units and additional troops. So far, 40,000 Palestinians have evacuated from the refugee camps of Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams, which are now empty of residents. UNRWA operations in these camps have also ceased.”

Katz emphasized that the IDF is engaged in offensive operations, eliminating terrorists and dismantling terrorist infrastructure, weapons stockpiles, and large scale buildings. “We are in a war against Islamic terrorism. I have instructed the IDF to prepare for a prolonged presence in the cleared camps for the coming year and to prevent the return of residents or the resurgence of terrorist activity,” Katz stressed.

After Attempted Terror Attack – Reinforcement of Three Battalions in Central Israel

The IDF’s announcement follows Thursday’s attempted terror attack in central Israel, where five explosive devices were planted on buses in Bat Yam and surrounding areas. Intelligence assessments suggest that the terrorist cell responsible for the attack originated from the Samaria region.

As a result, the IDF has confirmed the reinforcement of three additional battalions in the Central Command region: “The IDF continues to conduct continuous situational assessments and is prepared to expand offensive operations. The counterterrorism operation in northern Samaria is ongoing. The IDF will continue to operate both defensively and offensively to ensure the security of Israeli citizens.”

Firefighters and Rescue Teams at the Scene of the Attempted Terror Attack | Photo: Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90

Samaria Operation: 90 Terrorists Arrested in One Week

Over the past week, approximately 90 terrorists have been arrested across Judea and Samaria, and over 15 firearms have been seized along with additional weaponry. Last Thursday, the elite IDF Duvdevan Unit arrested five terrorists near Tulkarm. The unit also discovered and confiscated multiple weapons and explosive devices found in the building where the terrorists were apprehended.

Simultaneously, the IDF has blocked access points to certain areas in Judea and Samaria and has intensified security operations along the security barrier. Additionally, three more battalions have been deployed to the Judea and Samaria sector: “The IDF is conducting ongoing situational assessments and remains prepared to expand offensive operations as necessary,” an official statement read.