Israel’s military operation in the occupied West Bank continued for a fourth day on August 31, 2024, amid intense fighting in the Gaza war. The operation, which began on August 28, targeted the city of Jenin and its refugee camp, known as a stronghold for Palestinian armed groups. The escalating conflict raised concerns about the potential for further violence and human suffering.

Intensifying Clashes and Casualties in the West Bank

On Saturday, August 31, the Israeli military reported killing two Palestinians in the southern West Bank who they claimed were preparing to carry out bombings. This came as the military escalated its offensive in the north, focusing on Jenin. The operation in Jenin, which involved heavy artillery and air strikes, resulted in the deaths of at least 20 Palestinians, most of whom were militants, since Wednesday, August 28. Among those killed were two teenagers and an 82-year-old man.

The Situation in Jenin

Jenin and its refugee camp were once again at the center of the violence. The city and camp are strategically important and have a long history of resistance to Israeli rule. The presence of armed groups and the potential for them to launch attacks against Israel has made the area a focal point for the military.

The Israeli military’s actions in Jenin left a devastating mark on the city. The streets were deserted, except for armored vehicles. Access to the government hospital was blocked, and the hospital itself was left without electricity or water.

“I think it’s the worst day since the start of the raid,” said Wisam Bakr, the director of the hospital, in an interview with AFP. “We hear from time to time clashes and sometimes there is big bombing.”

Hamas and Islamic Jihad Respond

The Palestinian militant group Hamas, whose attack on Israel in October 2023 sparked the ongoing Gaza war, praised the alleged bombings in the southern West Bank as a “heroic operation.” They described it as taking place at a “sensitive time” during the Israeli military’s operations in the north.

Hamas’s ally, Islamic Jihad, also issued a statement congratulating those who carried out the attacks, which it called “coordinated.”

Shifting Dynamics and Growing Concerns

The escalation of violence in the West Bank raises serious concerns about the wider implications for peace in the region. The events in Jenin further complicated the fragile situation and fueled tensions. With a growing number of casualties, humanitarian efforts and civilian protection have become paramount.

Israeli Shelling and Casualties in Gaza

The ongoing military offensive in the West Bank took place amidst continued intense fighting in Gaza. Israel intensified its airstrikes and shelling, resulting in civilian casualties and the displacement of thousands.

The Gaza Civil Defence reported recovering 29 bodies from the rubble in the aftermath of Israeli airstrikes. The Gaza health ministry reported that at least 40,602 Palestinians have died in the conflict since its start.

Concerns for Civilians and Humanitarian Relief

The intensification of fighting in both the West Bank and Gaza raises serious concerns about the plight of civilians trapped in the conflict. Humanitarian organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), have raised alarms about the increasing challenges in providing relief to those in need.

The WHO negotiated humanitarian pauses in parts of Gaza to allow for vaccination efforts. The territory experienced a polio outbreak for the first time in 25 years. The pauses were not, however, considered a ceasefire.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The ongoing conflict has had a devastating impact on the lives of people in Gaza. The already dire humanitarian situation worsened as resources dwindled and the infrastructure of the territory crumbled under relentless airstrikes and shelling.

Impact on Relief Operations

The UN’s humanitarian office reported that the number of humanitarian missions and movements within Gaza denied access by Israeli authorities almost doubled in August compared to July. This limited access and increased control over movements posed significant challenges to humanitarian efforts to provide critical assistance to those in need.

Take Away Points

• The military operation in Jenin and the escalation of violence in the West Bank illustrates the complexities of the conflict and the dangers of further escalation.
• The ongoing fighting in Gaza is characterized by continued Israeli airstrikes and shelling, resulting in devastating casualties and displacement for Palestinian civilians.
• Humanitarian concerns for both civilians in the West Bank and Gaza are growing. Relief efforts are hindered by limited access, increased military controls, and the destruction of infrastructure.
• The international community is urged to exert pressure for a ceasefire and to facilitate access to humanitarian aid.