From the Liveblog of
Sunday, February 23, 2025
IDF deploys 3 tanks to West Bank for first time since 2002
Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
The IDF confirms it has deployed tanks to the West Bank as it expands its ongoing counter-terrorism operation in the Jenin area.
It marks the first time since the 2002 Operation Defensive Shield that IDF tanks are operating in the West Bank.
Troops of the Nahal Infantry Brigade and the Duvdevan Commando Unit began operations in several villages near Jenin this morning, the military says.
At the same time, a platoon from the 188th Armored Brigade is preparing to operate in Jenin, the army says. Palestinian media published images showing three tanks in the area.
The IDF has been carrying out a major offensive in the northern West Bank, dubbed Operation Iron Wall, since January 21.
???? جيش #الاحتلال يدفع بتعزيزات عدداً من دبابات الميركافا إلى فتحة المقيبلة بمحيط #جنين.#طوفان_الأقصى #قطاع_غزة #الضفة_الغربية pic.twitter.com/UAptCglRZn
— وكالة قدس برس (@qudspressagency) February 23, 2025
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