Palestinian Authority's Major Crackdown in Jenin: Operation Homeland Defense

In a significant move, Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces have launched a major operation in Jenin, targeting terror strongholds. This operation, described as the most serious in recent years, has led to a general strike with businesses, schools, and UNRWA offices closing in protest.

Operation Details

Dubbed "Operation Homeland Defense," the PA forces have taken control of four neighborhoods in the Jenin refugee camp, surrounded hospitals, and conducted thorough searches. The operation was directly ordered by PA President Mahmoud Abbas, who instructed the forces to gain full control of the camp.

Key Events

During the operation, PA forces killed Yazid Ja'isa, a commander in the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group. Ja'isa had previously clashed with the PA, including an incident involving the seizure of weapons from Palestinian police.

Broader Strategy

A senior PA official stated that the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to demonstrate the PA's ability to maintain governance, with an eye on eventually administering the Gaza Strip. The operation aims to restore control in Judea and Samaria and demonstrate governance capacity to international stakeholders, particularly the United States.

Unrest and Reactions

The operation has sparked unrest in other areas, with calls for refugee camps in Shechem (Nablus) to join the fighting. Human rights organizations are urging the PA to end the campaign.