1. Summary:
On August 25, 2024, the Palestinian Police detained twelve individuals in Jenin, including five militants and seven agitators involved in protests and disturbances. These arrests are part of the Palestinian Authority’s (PA) ongoing efforts to curb unrest in the West Bank, particularly amidst rising concerns over potential incitement by Hamas and other regional actors due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While Israeli and Palestinian authorities are collaborating closely, the PA maintains a low profile regarding this cooperation. The operation reflects the PA’s broader strategy to strengthen control over agitators in its territories, with significant roles played by the Palestinian Police Preventive Security Bureau and the Palestinian General Intelligence Department.
2. Arrest Operations:
According to Palestinian Authority sources, the arrests took place on August 25, 2024, targeting individuals in Jenin and the Jenin Refugee Camp. The operation led to the detention of five militants, known for openly carrying assault rifles, and seven agitators involved in organizing protests, causing disturbances, and engaging in confrontations with Israeli forces.
3. Strategic Implications:
These arrests underscore the PA’s commitment to preventing further unrest in the West Bank, particularly in light of concerns that Hamas and other Arab nations may attempt to incite additional violence amidst the Gaza conflict. The PA’s efforts are aimed at stabilizing the region and preempting any escalations that could undermine their control.
4. Israeli-Palestinian Security Cooperation:
An Israeli security source confirmed to JaFaJ that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are closely cooperating with the PA to target terrorist activities in the West Bank. However, this collaboration remains largely undisclosed by the PA to avoid potential backlash. The source emphasized that Jenin remains a focal point of concern due to its history of militancy and frequent unrest.
5. COMMENT:
The recent arrests highlight the PA’s ongoing initiative to tighten control over potential sources of unrest within its territories. The cooperation with Israeli security forces, though discreet, is primarily conducted through the Palestinian Police Preventive Security Bureau and the Palestinian General Intelligence Department. Jenin continues to pose a significant challenge for both the PA and Israel, given its reputation as a center for militant activity and recurrent disturbances.
This operation aligns with the broader security strategies employed by the PA to maintain order in the West Bank during a period of heightened tension and conflict.