Middle East Crisis Death Toll in Israel's West Bank Raids Rises to 17, Palestinian News Agency Says

Israel’s military engaged in a gun battle in a West Bank mosque, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. This incident occurred during their large-scale military operations in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian Authority’s news agency reported a total of 17 deaths across the territory as a result of these raids. The Israeli military claimed that the individuals killed in the mosque were militants, including a top commander. Israeli forces also conducted raids and closed down entrances to a refugee camp. The military has described Jenin and Tulkarm as militant strongholds. Settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank has also been on the rise, with the United Nations documenting numerous attacks and deaths. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law and have drawn condemnation from the international community. A Bedouin hostage was freed and reunited with his family, calling for an end to the conflict. The hostage had spent 10 months in captivity under Hamas tunnels. The release shed light on the challenges faced by Israel’s Bedouin community, including limited access to medical centers and bomb shelters. The Bedouin community has suffered casualties and continues to have family members held hostage in Gaza. The wife of the released hostage expressed appreciation for the warm welcome her husband received from Israeli officials but acknowledged the presence of racism in society. She hopes for peace and the release of all hostages, both Arab and Jewish.