In a recent turn of events, Israel carried out an air strike in the northern region of the West Bank, claimingly targeting a militant Palestinian command center. As reported by the Palestinian Health Ministry, this operation sadly resulted in the loss of five lives. According to Palestinian sources, a drone discharged multiple projectiles at a gathering of people during the Monday night incident, taking place within the local refugee camp of Nur Shams.
Tensions in the West Bank have been on the rise since the start of the Gaza war following the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023. As per the Health Ministry's records, a total of 624 Palestinians have met their end due to Israeli military actions, confrontations, or their own attacks. Moreover, there has been a surge in aggressive behavior from Israeli settlers towards Palestinians during this volatile period.
The Palestinian Authority's headquarters lie in the culturally and politically vibrant city of Ramallah, situated in the central West Bank. Despite the ongoing strife, Ramallah continues to be a significant hub for the Palestinian people.
Now, let's delve into some recent developments regarding drone strikes in the West Bank:
- On January 29, 2025, a Palestinian boy named Jihad Naser Yousef Bani Matar, aged 17, lost his life in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an Israeli drone-fired missile in Tammoun, a village in the northern occupied West Bank. This was the first of several tragic incidents that unfolded over the following days.
- A fortnight later, on February 1, 2025, a drone strike in the eastern neighborhood of Jenin claimed the life of a 14-year-old Palestinian boy, Ahmad Abdelhakim Shaker Saadi. The attack also left two other Palestinians wounded.
- Shockingly, shortly after Ahmad's death, another Israeli drone-fired missile killed a relative of Ahmad, Nour, who was reportedly being sought by Israeli forces. The same attack also claimed the life of a Palestinian nurse.
- Israeli airstrikes hit Jenin yet again on February 2, 2025, resulting in the death of five Palestinians and injuring three others. The strikes, which included a drone attack on a vehicle in the town of Qabatiya, south of Jenin, resulted in the death of a 14-year-old child.
These drone strikes, taking place in densely populated areas, have been strongly criticized for their disregard for Palestinian lives and the cycle of bloodshed they perpetuate.
