Escalation in Jenin: Hamas Commander Killed by Israeli Forces

Israeli forces killed Wassem Hazem, a Hamas commander in Jenin, amidst a major West Bank operation. Two other gunmen were killed, and significant military equipment was found. The clash highlights ongoing regional hostilities, marking an uptick in violence particularly in Jenin and Tulkarm.

Israeli forces killed Wassem Hazem, a local commander of the Islamist movement Hamas, in the volatile city of Jenin on Friday, as part of an extensive operation in the occupied West Bank, according to the Israeli military.

The military reported that Border Police forces fatally shot Hazem, who they claimed was responsible for multiple shooting and bombing attacks in Palestinian territory. Two other Hamas gunmen attempting to flee the scene were killed by a drone. Weapons, explosives, and large sums of cash were discovered in their vehicle, the military added.

This incident is part of a larger, ongoing operation involving hundreds of troops, police, and the use of drones and helicopters, primarily focused on Jenin, Tulkarm, and the Jordan Valley. Since mid-week, 17 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, further fanning regional tensions. The British government has expressed deep concerns over Israel's methods and the rising civilian toll.

(With inputs from agencies.)