As part of the ongoing cease-fire hostage deal, hundreds of convicted terrorists, including murderers, have been released—most returning to the West Bank. In response, the IDF has expanded its military operations in the region.
On the 20th day of Operation Iron Wall, the IDF announced Sunday that troops, along with Border Police and Shin Bet forces, launched an overnight operation in Nur Shams, a terrorist stronghold near Tulkarm. During the initial strike, forces targeted several armed terrorists, with confirmed hits, resulting in multiple deaths and arrests, according to security sources.
Palestinian sources claimed that a 23-year-old pregnant woman was killed, and her husband severely wounded, during the operation. The IDF has not commented on the report.
Under the command of Ephraim Brigade Commander Col. Netanel Shamaka, IDF troops are clearing pathways and dismantling underground explosive devices planted by terrorists. Due to the camp’s dense population and urban congestion, progress remains slow.
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Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the expansion of military operations in the northern West Bank, saying, "We are dismantling the terror infrastructure in the camps and preventing its resurgence. We will not allow the Iranian axis of evil to establish an eastern terror front threatening Israeli communities in the West Bank, the Seam Zone and major cities."
IDF operating in Nur-a-Shams
(Video: IDF)
Nur Shams has become a key hub for terrorist activity, following patterns seen in Nablus and Jenin. The camp harbors an organized network of terrorists responsible for numerous attacks on Israeli troops and civilians.
Currently, three IDF brigade combat teams are deployed across the northern West Bank, alongside special forces units: The Menashe Brigade is leading operations in Jenin; the Ephraim Brigade is engaged in counterterrorism efforts in Tulkarm and Nur Shams; and the Basic Training Base for Field Units is conducting operations in Tamun, Tayasir, Tubas and Fara’a.
Hundreds of soldiers are actively targeting command centers, weapons labs and key terror operatives, with the Shin Bet playing a central role in intelligence gathering and precision strikes.
Since the start of the year, the Shin Bet has thwarted 150 major terror attacks, including 45 planned bombings. During the current operation, security forces have prevented at least eight significant attacks, utilizing airstrikes, targeted arrests and intelligence-driven operations.
The elimination of two terrorists responsible for the Funduq shooting attack that killed three Israeli civilians, including a police officer.
The elimination of two terrorists involved in the bombing in Tamun, which killed Sgt. First Class (res.) Eviatar Ben Yehuda.
Security officials indicate that IDF forces are likely to remain in the northern West Bank for an extended period, possibly through Ramadan, to neutralize terrorist networks and prevent celebrations honoring released terrorists.
The Shin Bet continues to monitor those freed in recent prisoner exchanges, with intelligence assessments showing that most released terrorists return to militant activity. Last week, a senior security official warned, "Based on our intelligence data, the majority of those released are reengaging in terror."