Tulkarm, West Bank – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a series of airstrikes in the Tulkarm area of the Menashe Brigade early Tuesday, targeting armed terrorists. The IDF reported that the operation was aimed at neutralizing threats posed by militant factions operating in the region.

According to IDF sources, the strikes were conducted in response to ongoing security threats and were intended to disrupt terrorist activities. Local Palestinian reports, however, identified Ashraf Nafi, the commander of the Izzadin al-Qassam brigades in Tulkarm, as one of the casualties. The Izzadin al-Qassam brigades are the military wing of Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.

The Palestinian news network Safa, which has affiliations with Hamas, reported that three terrorists were killed in the strikes. Additionally, Safa claimed that the IDF used smoke bombs during the bombardment of the Tulkarm camp, although the IDF has not confirmed the use of smoke bombs.

In the aftermath of the airstrikes, reports emerged of clashes between IDF forces and terrorists in the town of Sa’ir, located north of Hebron. Safa reported that these clashes were part of a broader series of operations by the IDF in the West Bank.

The IDF’s operation in Tulkarm was part of a wider crackdown on suspected militants in the region. On July 18, 2024, the IDF conducted overnight raids across the West Bank, resulting in several arrests of individuals wanted for their involvement in terrorist activities. The military has been ramping up its operations in the West Bank as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and maintain security in the area.

The situation in the West Bank remains tense as the IDF continues its operations. The military has faced criticism from various quarters regarding the impact of its actions on local civilians and the broader implications for peace and stability in the region.

The IDF has not yet provided further details on the specific targets of the airstrikes or the extent of the damage caused. The military has also not confirmed whether additional operations are planned in response to the ongoing security situation.

As the conflict persists, both local and international observers are closely monitoring developments. The impact of these recent operations on the overall security situation in the West Bank remains uncertain, with potential implications for future peace negotiations and regional stability.

The situation continues to evolve, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.