In a major military escalation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed deploying tanks in the West Bank at levels not seen in decades, marking a significant shift in operational tactics in the region.
The military buildup comes amid controversy over Palestinian civilian evacuations from northern West Bank areas, including Jenin, Tulkarm, Nur Shams, Tubas, and Kabatiya. Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed approximately 40,000 Palestinians have been evacuated since January 21, though IDF sources dispute this number, estimating 13,000-14,000 evacuees.
The heightened military presence follows a thwarted terrorist attempt to detonate five buses in the Bat Yam area. The incident, believed to be orchestrated by militants from the Tulkarm region, was prevented without casualties.
In a controversial statement, Defense Minister Katz declared that evacuated Palestinian residents would not be permitted to return to their homes, contradicting earlier IDF assurances. This stance has raised concerns among international observers about potential violations of international law.
While the deployment of tanks represents an aggressive military strategy, legal experts note that such tactical decisions do not inherently violate international law. However, the extended displacement of civilian populations could face scrutiny from the International Criminal Court, which has previously issued warrants related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The current situation represents the largest displacement of Palestinians in the northern West Bank in decades, marking a notable shift in the region's military and humanitarian landscape.