Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel would launch an "all-out war" in the occupied West Bank if military operations planned by groups linked to the Palestinian Authority are discovered. The threat includes targeting senior PA officials and security apparatuses.
The escalating rhetoric and potential for a large-scale military operation in the West Bank signal a significant increase in tensions between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, raising concerns about further violence and regional instability.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel is prepared to launch an "all-out war" in the occupied West Bank if any military operations are discovered being planned by groups associated with the Palestinian Authority. Katz stated that such an operation would involve a broad campaign against senior PA officials, its security apparatuses, and "terrorist infrastructure" within the territory.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly instructed the Israeli army to prepare for such an operation should the security situation deteriorate. Katz emphasized that Israel would not permit a return to prolonged conflict like the Second Intifada (2000-2005) or a repeat of the October 7 attacks, aiming to ensure the security of Israeli residents.
Historically, groups linked to the PA, such as the al-Aqsa Martyr Brigades, participated in the Second Intifada. However, the PA has also faced criticism for its cooperation with Israeli security services in suppressing Palestinian armed groups. Katz suggested that any major operation against the PA would emulate the "security zones" previously established in Gaza and Lebanon.
Recent incidents in the West Bank include the Israeli military shooting and killing a Palestinian who had stabbed an Israeli settler. Additionally, Jewish settlers reportedly shot and killed a Palestinian man in Hajeh village, east of Qalqilya, after opening fire on Palestinians and wounding several others.