Israeli Army Confirms Soldier Killed in Ongoing West Bank Raid

Photo : AFP

Since Wednesday, Israeli military operations in northern West Bank cities have resulted in at least 22 Palestinian deaths, primarily among operatives. 

In Jenin, the Israeli army reported the death of 20-year-old soldier Elkana Navon on Saturday. The army stated that Navon "fell during operational activity" and that another soldier sustained severe injuries in the same incident, although further details were not provided. 

The current raid, which began four days ago, has intensified in Jenin and its refugee camp, known for its strong presence of Palestinian armed groups. This surge in violence follows the unprecedented Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which has since escalated into a broader conflict involving the Gaza Strip.

According to the United Nations, at least 637 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces or settlers since the onset of the Gaza war. In contrast, Israeli sources report 20 Israeli fatalities, including soldiers, due to Palestinian attacks or military operations during the same period.

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Israeli Army Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, visiting Jenin on Saturday, emphasized the army's commitment to counter-terrorism efforts. He stated, "The initiative is to go from city to city, refugee camp to refugee camp, with excellent intelligence and strong operational capabilities. We will protect the citizens of Israel."

Hamas and Islamic Jihad reported that at least 14 of the 22 Palestinians killed since Wednesday were members of their armed wings. On Saturday, Hamas claimed responsibility for an ambush in the Jenin refugee camp involving a highly explosive device, which reportedly led to casualties among Israeli forces.