Israel launches major operation in West Bank after soldiers killed

Israeli forces initiated a multi-day operation in the West Bank on Friday following the killing of two soldiers. The action, which includes searches and building demolitions, was triggered by gunmen who targeted soldiers at a checkpoint near Hebron, the site of a key election campaign stop for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu and his right-wing allies visited the scene to demonstrate their commitment to a more aggressive stance against West Bank militant activity.

Military and intelligence sources said that the operation would focus on dismantling terrorist infrastructure and that it would continue for several days. Hamas, which claimed responsibility for the attack, called for more violence against Israelis. Israeli officials vowed to pursue Hamas terrorists and vowed to "obliterate" the group in response to the October 7, 2023 attack that killed 1,221 people.

Human rights groups have condemned the planned operation, calling it a potential violation of international law and warning of possible war crimes.