Escalating Clashes in West Bank Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

A significant Israeli offensive in the occupied West Bank has led to the deaths of at least nine Palestinians, amid rising clashes following the start of the Israel-Hamas war. Both sides have experienced notable casualties, and international efforts to reach a ceasefire continue without significant progress.

A significant Israeli offensive in the occupied West Bank has led to the deaths of at least nine Palestinians, according to Palestinian health authorities. The offensive, which took place in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas, has intensified after the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began.

The Israeli military is expected to release a statement about the operation, having already named five Palestinian fighters killed at the West Bank's Nur Shams refugee camp on Monday. The region has seen a sharp uptake in clashes, including frequent attacks by Jewish settlers against Palestinian communities.

Armed groups from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and Fatah have claimed responsibility for using explosives against Israeli military vehicles. Islamic Jihad accused Israel of trying to expand the conflict to the West Bank. Since the conflict began nearly 11 months ago, thousands of Palestinians have been arrested and over 660 people killed. Israel, meanwhile, notes that it has lost at least 30 citizens to recent violence.

Hamas initiated the latest violence on Oct. 7, resulting in 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of more than 250 hostages. Since then, Israel's Gaza campaign has led to massive displacement and the deaths of over 40,400 Palestinians. International mediation efforts continue, although little progress has been made towards a ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies.)