Israel deploys tanks in West Bank for first time in over two decades

Israel has deployed tanks into the West Bank for the first time since 2002, signaling a shift in military strategy. The Israeli military has been ordered to prepare for an extended presence to combat terrorism, particularly in refugee camps. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that troops will remain in parts of the West Bank for the coming year. He noted that around 40,000 Palestinians have fled the area, which has left it largely empty. This military action occurs amid a fragile ceasefire with Hamas, which has recently released hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The Palestinian foreign ministry has condemned the tank deployment as a dangerous escalation.