Israeli military operations escalate violence in Jenin

In the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine, a significant military operation occurred in the Palestinian town of Jenin soon after the Gaza ceasefire that took effect on January 19, 2025. This operation was launched by Israeli forces two days later, during which they targeted a town known for its historical stronghold of armed groups. The operation followed recent fratricidal clashes involving Palestinian Authority security forces and was seen as a demonstration of the Israeli government's intentions to marginalize the Palestinian Authority in both the West Bank and Gaza. The operation in Jenin left many dead and injured, increasing hostility and violence in the area. Following the Israeli military action, there have been widespread concerns over the weakening position of Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian Authority leader. Abbas attempted to show goodwill in his dealings with Israel but faced humiliation instead. This resulted in a perception of Abbas as an auxiliary to the Israeli government while the Palestinian Authority has struggled with eroding revenues from tax collections disrupted by Israeli policies. The international community's response remains fragmented, raising questions about future stability in the region. In the wider context, since the onset of violence on October 7, 2023, there have been over 700 reported Palestinian deaths in the West Bank, alongside retaliatory attacks from Palestinian armed groups that resulted in approximately 30 Israeli fatalities. Reports of violent reprisals by extremist Israeli settlers also indicate an escalating cycle of violence, which has drawn criticism and concern about Israel's approach to the occupation of the West Bank. As tensions rise, the situation in Jenin underscores a critical juncture for both the Palestinian Authority and the Israeli government. With the far-right factions in Israel continuing to exert influence, the likelihood of a continuing cycle of violence increases, complicating the potential for any peace negotiations. The lack of an effective Palestinian governance structure has allowed extremist violence to flourish, further jeopardizing the prospect of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.