Israeli military operations in the occupied West Bank have intensified dramatically since the onset of the war in Gaza, marking a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict. The period since october 2023 has been characterized by large-scale incursions, a sharp rise in Palestinian casualties and detentions, and a new, named military campaign reshaping the security landscape of the territory.
In january 2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched "Operation Iron Wall," a major offensive targeting Palestinian militants in the West Bank. The operation, which began in Jenin and expanded to Tulkarm and other areas, reportedly involved collaboration with the Palestinian Authority, marking a strategic shift in the region. This has led to Israeli forces taking control of the Jenin, Nur Shams, and Tulkarm refugee camps.
The military escalation was further highlighted in february 2025 when Israeli tanks entered the West Bank city of Jenin, a move not seen since 2002. Following the deployment, Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant stated that troops would remain in parts of the territory for a year, a decision expected to prevent tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians from returning to their homes.
The human cost of these intensified operations has been substantial. According to United Nations data, at least 806 Palestinians, including 143 children, have been killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank since october 2023. Other reports indicate the death toll may exceed 1,020. In the same period, roughly 7,000 Palestinians have been injured. The number of arrests is also staggering, with an estimated 10,000 to 19,000 Palestinians detained by Israeli forces. Additionally, the UN has recorded over 800 attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians between october 2023 and may 2024.
Israeli raids have become a frequent occurrence in cities like Nablus, often involving the use of snipers, tear gas, and live ammunition. Palestinians view these operations, such as the siege of Tulkarm, as part of a broader Israeli strategy to assert dominance and control over the Palestinian population.
The escalating situation has drawn international scrutiny. A United Nations Commission report released in september 2025 accused the Israeli government of seeking permanent control over Gaza and aiming to secure a Jewish demographic majority in the West Bank. The report noted extensive demolitions and geographic changes in Gaza as evidence of a strategic occupation. The Israeli government criticized the report, stating that it misrepresented the situation and failed to acknowledge the role of Hamas in initiating the conflict.
As military operations continue, the situation in the West Bank remains volatile, deeply intertwined with the broader war in Gaza and adding another layer of complexity to the regional conflict.