IDF conducts special military operation in Jenin, at least 8 terrorists killed

Updated at 2:03 p.m. Israel time.

The Israel Defense Forces began a large-scale operation in the city of Jenin overnight, together with the Israel Security Agency (ISA), also known as Shin Bet. 

The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in the Jenin refugee camp. 

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, eight people were killed and dozens wounded during the operation, with seven people sustaining serious injuries. 

Videos were uploaded to social media by Palestinians in Jenin showing the explosions and the entry of IDF military troops into the area. 

IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari briefed the Israeli press following the operation. 

He said the cooperative operation between the IDF and the Shin Bet was meant “to harm the terrorist infrastructure and harm terrorists.” 

Hagari said that security forces had been planning the covert operation for some time.

“The course of the attack created a surprise on the ground, the enemy was surprised by an aerial attack that hit terrorists and sites he thought we didn't know. This surprise allowed us the security of the forces and enabled the raid that was carried out.”

The operation started with an airstrike on one of the headquarters of the targeted group, “a joint and unified operations room of the terrorist factions that included both terrorists and weapons.” 

Following the airstrike, IDF Golani Paratroopers entered the buildings, where they found improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and materials for making the bombs. 

“We did not come to occupy the refugee camp, this is not an operation against the Palestinian Authority, this is an operation against the terrorist organizations in Jenin that also embitter the lives of civilians in Jenin," Hagari said.

Another senior official said, “The goal of this extensive operation is to end Jenin’s role as a sanctuary city for terror, and it will last as long as it needs to.” 

Several Palestinians in Jenin reported that the IDF sent text messages instructing residents to remain indoors during the operation. 

Following the operation, the Israeli Foreign Ministry posted to social media, showing the terror infrastructure targeted by the IDF. 

Terrorist organizations use the Jenin Refugee camp to promote terror activities within a highly populated area. They operate a terror hub embedded among schools and medical centers.

Israel acts against terror elements which disrupt the stability and security of the region, while… pic.twitter.com/yTjjj5ZSV2

— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) July 3, 2023