Israel’s internal security agency has announced a significant breakthrough in its efforts to combat Hamas operations in the occupied West Bank. On Sunday, the Shin Bet revealed that it had dismantled a complex network of Hamas militants in the city of Hebron, resulting in the arrest of 60 individuals linked to the group.
In a statement, the Shin Bet described this operation as “significant, complex, and large-scale,” highlighting that it uncovered 10 militant cells that were actively planning attacks against Israeli targets. The agency emphasized that these cells were working to recruit, arm, and train additional operatives to carry out both shooting and bombing attacks in the region.
The operation, which lasted three months, was conducted in coordination with the Israeli military and police, marking one of the largest investigations in the West Bank in the past decade. The Shin Bet reported that it not only apprehended over 60 operatives but also confiscated 22 weapons of various types. Additionally, the agency noted that it had made strides in resolving a long-standing case involving a shooting attack near Hebron that resulted in the deaths of four Israelis 15 years ago. Charges of terrorism are expected to be filed against those apprehended during this operation.
As of now, Hamas has not issued a response to the Shin Bet’s statement. The ongoing conflict has seen a noticeable escalation of violence in the West Bank, particularly following Israel’s military offensive in Gaza, which commenced after the deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Reports from the Palestinian health ministry suggest that the violence has included considerable casualties, with Israeli forces or settlers allegedly killing 945 Palestinians, including both militants and a significant number of civilians since the outbreak of the Gaza war. In contrast, Israel has reported that 35 of its soldiers and civilians have been killed due to Palestinian attacks or during military operations in the area.
The current situation remains tense as security operations continue against the backdrop of rising hostilities and casualties on both sides.
