Israel deploys tanks in West Bank for first time in decades as defense minister restricts Palestinian return

Israeli tanks entered the West Bank on February 23, 2025, marking the first deployment in decades. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that troops would remain for a year, and tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians would not be allowed to return. The military operation aims to combat rising militancy in the region, with Israeli officials stating they will intensify efforts against terrorism. The Palestinian foreign ministry condemned the actions as a dangerous escalation and called for international intervention. Since the conflict escalated in October 2023, over 800 Palestinians have died in the West Bank. The situation remains tense, with ongoing discussions about a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners.