Escalating Clashes in Jenin: Israeli Military Operations Face International Scrutiny

Clashes erupted between Israeli troops and Palestinian fighters in the West Bank city of Jenin amid a major Israeli military operation. The operation aims to block militant groups, but has resulted in 19 Palestinian and one Israeli soldier deaths. The escalating violence has drawn international concern.

Israeli troops and Palestinian fighters clashed in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday, as Israel advanced a military operation in the volatile region. The Israeli military searched areas surrounding Jewish settlements after two security incidents on Friday.

Hundreds of Israeli troops have been conducting raids since Wednesday in one of the biggest operations in months. Israel's aim is to prevent Iranian-backed militant groups from attacking its citizens, but the mission has prompted calls for a ceasefire from the international community. At least 19 Palestinians and one Israeli soldier have been killed since the operation began.

The Palestinian Red Crescent reported a child was hospitalised with a bullet wound to the head on Saturday. As gunfire continues, armored bulldozers searching for roadside bombs have caused extensive damage, leading to flooding in some areas. Israeli forces are intensifying both defensive and offensive measures to counter perceived threats from Iran-supported factions in the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies.)