The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) initiated a significant counterterrorism operation in Jenin on Tuesday, targeting infrastructure linked to militant groups. The operation, involving the IDF, Israel Security Authority, and Israel Border Police, followed reports of two fatalities from an Israeli strike, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry via France 24. The Times of Israel, citing an Israeli military source, indicated the operation commenced with drone strikes and is anticipated to span several days.

IDF operations in Jenin and the Jenin Camp (IDF Spokesperson's Unit).

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed the operation as part of a broader strategy to bolster security, stating, "We act methodically and resolutely against… the Iranian axis wherever it sends its arms."

IDF International Spokesperson Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani emphasized the operation's focus on civilian protection and dismantling terrorist infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by both organized networks and individual attackers. He noted the IDF's previous operation in the area a few months prior and the hundreds of attacks originating from the region in the past fifteen months.

Palestinian Authority security forces in the Jenin camp (ZAIN JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images).

The IDF's operation coincides with the Palestinian Authority's own efforts to regain control in Jenin and its refugee camp, a known hub for militant groups. Reuters reports that the PA has been engaged in a weeks-long campaign to address the escalating challenges posed by these groups, including a recent operation against Iranian-backed factions, leading to violent confrontations.

Palestinian security forces during a funeral in the Jenin refugee camp (Nasser Ishtayeh/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images).

Mohammad Daraghmeh, Asharq News bureau chief in Ramallah, highlighted the PA’s efforts to counteract Iran's funding of militants and the complexities of this struggle, noting the public sentiment against further military conflict following recent events in Gaza and Lebanon.

The Jenin operation unfolds as the IDF's conflict with Hamas in Gaza reaches a critical juncture. A ceasefire agreement resulted in the release of three Israeli hostages – Emily Damari, Romi Goren, and Doron Steinbrecher – after 471 days in captivity.