IDF says 17 Palestinians arrested, weapons seized in overnight raids

The Israel Defense Forces says troops detained 17 wanted Palestinians, seized weapons, and neutralized explosive devices during raids across the West Bank overnight.

In a “brigade-level” operation in the Nur Shams refugee camp, near Tulkarem, the IDF says troops located and destroyed around ten explosive devices, and detained one suspect.

“Exchanges of fire took place in the area and suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire,” the IDF says, adding that suspects were hit.

Fifteen wanted Palestinians were detained and several firearms were seized in a number of Palestinian villages in the central and southern West Bank, the IDF says. Another suspect was detained in the Bethlehem area.

Armed clashes also broke out in the Askar refugee camp near the northern West Bank city of Nablus. The IDF says troops returned fire at gunmen and used riot dispersal means.

There are no reports of Israeli troops hurt.

Palestinian health officials reported at least 13 wounded in Nur Shams, and two wounded in Askar.