Israeli army readies major West Bank operation amid settlement attacks

The Israeli army announced it is preparing a large‑scale anti‑terror operation in the occupied West Bank, focusing on the northern sector around Nablus. The move follows a series of violent incidents, including settler raids on Palestinian villages, arson of two mosques in Kousra and Kur, and the killing of one Israeli and four Palestinians in the village of Tel on 24 July.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an emergency security meeting and said the response will target the perpetrators and those behind the attacks. The army has reinforced its presence, adding extra battalions and deploying additional troops to the area. Israeli security officials also warned of a “severe tension” situation as the number of illegal settlement outposts rises – more than 80 outposts and 126 farms have been reported in recent weeks, complicating control and increasing confrontations.

The United Nations has repeatedly condemned the surge in settler violence. The Israeli Defense Forces stated that soldiers intervened in Kousra after complaints, found evidence of arson and graffiti, and are continuing operations to contain further attacks.