IDF Conducts Counterterrorism Operations in West Bank and Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have recently undertaken significant counterterrorism operations in both the West Bank and southern Lebanon. These operations are part of ongoing efforts to address threats posed by militant groups such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and Jamaa Islamiya.

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On February 9, 2026, the IDF, in coordination with the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), executed a broad counterterrorism operation across 12 villages in the Menashe Brigade sector. This operation resulted in the arrest of multiple suspects affiliated with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, alongside the seizure of tens of thousands of shekels believed to be linked to terrorist financing. Additionally, the IDF reported 23 arrests across the West Bank, confiscating weapons including a Kalashnikov rifle and various pistols.

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In a separate operation, the IDF arrested Atwi Atwi, a senior figure in the Sunni Jamaa Islamiya organization, during a raid approximately 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory. This operation, which took place late Sunday, was based on intelligence gathered over several weeks. Atwi was apprehended for interrogation, with Israeli officials citing the potential intelligence value regarding Hezbollah. The IDF also reported a deadly clash in Rafah, where four Hamas operatives were killed after they opened fire on Israeli troops.

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Following the arrest of Atwi, Jamaa Islamiya condemned the action, asserting that Israel is responsible for any harm that may come to him. The group characterized the arrest as an intimidation tactic aimed at the residents of southern Lebanon and called on the Lebanese government to intervene and secure the release of Lebanese detainees.

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The IDF's operations in both regions reflect an ongoing strategy to counteract perceived threats from militant groups. The military's actions in the West Bank and Lebanon highlight the complexities of security dynamics in the region, particularly concerning ceasefire agreements and the activities of armed groups in tunnel networks.

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The IDF has characterized the operations as necessary measures to maintain security and respond to violations of ceasefire agreements by Hamas. Israeli security officials noted an increase in hostile activities by Hamas operatives, particularly those utilizing tunnel networks in southern Gaza.

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While the IDF reported the successful execution of these operations, there are varying accounts regarding the circumstances and implications of the arrests and clashes. For instance, Lebanese media described Atwi's arrest as an abduction, contrasting with the IDF's narrative of a targeted operation.

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• “Israeli security officials said the decision to arrest the operative rather than kill him stemmed from the significant intelligence value expected from his interrogation, including information related to Hezbollah.” — Israeli Security Officials

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• “The IDF described the incident as a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement by Hamas.” — IDF Statement

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These operations underscore the ongoing tensions and military engagements between Israel and militant groups in the region, reflecting the complexities of security and counterterrorism efforts.

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