Full Breakdown
Israeli Military Launches Counterterrorism Operation in Northern West Bank
11/28/2025, 7:57:24 PM
Overview of the Operation
On November 26, 2025, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency initiated a large-scale counterterrorism operation in the northern West Bank, specifically targeting areas in northern Samaria, which is the biblical term used by Israel for part of the region. This operation is distinct from the "Iron Wall" campaign launched in January 2025, which primarily focused on Palestinian refugee camps. The current operation involves the deployment of approximately three IDF brigades, including the Commando Brigade, Samaria and Menashe regional brigades, and Border Police officers.
Context of Increased Violence
The operation comes in response to a significant rise in violence in the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. This escalation follows the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which triggered the ongoing Gaza war. Since then, the IDF has reported over 752 incidents of nationalistic crime and settler violence in the West Bank in 2025 alone, a notable increase from the 675 incidents recorded in 2024.
Details of the Operation
The military operation involves extensive raids in several Palestinian towns and villages, including Tubas, Tammun, and al-Aqaba. Reports indicate that a curfew has been imposed in the area, with roads blocked by bulldozers creating earth mounds. Helicopters have also been deployed to support ground operations. The IDF stated that the objective is to thwart the establishment of terror networks in the region, arrest suspects, and search for weapons. No immediate injuries have been reported during these operations.
Official Statements & Responses
The IDF and Shin Bet emphasized their commitment to preventing the establishment of terror in the area, stating, “The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet won’t allow terror to become established in the area and are working actively to thwart it.” The operation is expected to continue for several days, similar to previous military actions in Palestinian villages over the past two years.
Criticism & Opposition
Human rights organizations and Palestinian officials have condemned the military operations, citing concerns over civilian safety and the impact on local communities. Reports from Palestinian media allege that the operations have resulted in property damage and looting, raising alarms about the humanitarian situation in the affected areas.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the IDF has reported no injuries during the operation, Palestinian sources have indicated that clashes have resulted in casualties among security forces. Additionally, the extent of damage and the number of arrests remain unclear, with conflicting accounts emerging from various local and international news outlets.
What's Next
As the operation unfolds, residents in the affected areas are preparing for further military actions, road closures, and potential arrests. The ongoing violence and military presence in the West Bank continue to draw international concern, with analysts warning that without measures to maintain calm, further clashes may occur.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet won’t allow terror to become established in the area and are working actively to thwart it,” — IDF and Shin Bet Joint Statement
- “The officials said the operation was new and not part of its counterterrorism operation launched in January 2025, which primarily targets Palestinian refugee camps.” — IDF Official Statement
- “The escalating violence has heightened tensions and drawn international concern.” — Analyst Commentary
