Israeli Forces Eliminate Hamas Commander in Major West Bank Offensive; UN Urges Immediate Halt

Israeli forces have intensified their military operation in the West Bank, killing a Hamas commander and at least two of his associates on Friday. The operation, now in its third day, has focused on the stronghold city of Jenin.

A firefighter extinguishes the flames of a smoldering car in Zababdeh, southeast of Jenin, on Aug. 30, 2024. Ismael Ahmad/UPI/Shutterstock

Wassem Hazem, the head of Hamas in Jenin, was killed in a firefight with Israeli special forces. Hazem, known for his involvement in various attacks, was targeted during a pursuit that also led to the discovery of weapons, explosives, and substantial cash in his vehicle.

Hamas confirmed the deaths, identifying the three individuals as members of its al-Qassam Brigades, the group’s armed wing. Witnesses reported seeing the burnt-out car, riddled with bullet holes, which came to a halt after being pursued by Israeli forces.

Resident Saif Ghannam described witnessing the deaths of two men who attempted to flee. One was killed near his home, while the other was found a short distance away. The area showed signs of the attack, including shattered windows from a drone strike and pools of blood left behind after the bodies were removed.

Palestinians assess the damage at the scene of an Israeli strike on a car near Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. REUTERS

The ongoing Israeli operation, the most significant in months, involves coordinated raids in Jenin, Tulkarm, and the Jordan Valley. Israeli forces have been using armoured vehicles, helicopters, and drones, with bulldozers to clear roads of bombs planted by militants.

Israeli soldiers operate in Jenin in the occupied West Bank. Israeli Army/AFP via Getty Images

The Israeli military reports that 20 terrorists have been killed and 17 suspects apprehended. Israel claims the raids aim to prevent future attacks, but Palestinians argue that the actions exacerbate the conflict in Gaza.

Israeli soldiers in Jenin on Aug. 30, 2024. Israeli Army/AFP via Getty Images

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate halt to the raids, urging Israel to adhere to international law and protect civilians. Guterres warned that the ongoing violence is escalating tensions in the West Bank and weakening the Palestinian Authority.

Sola Adeniji

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