israel:Security officers Arrest 75 Terrorists in West Bank operations

Israeli security forces conducted an overnight counterterrorism operation in the West Bank, arresting 75 wanted terrorists and confiscating 17 weapons.

In a coordinated effort involving the IDF, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), and Israel Police, security personnel carried out multiple arrests and weapon seizures, the military announced on Thursday.

During operations in Al Yamun, troops arrested four wanted terrorists and seized two M-16 rifles. Another four terrorists were taken into custody in Hebron, where security forces also confiscated two M-16 rifles.

In Immatin, near Nablus, security forces seized thousands of shekels designated as terror funds.

Several terrorists were arrested last week in Jericho, with authorities subsequently questioning them for intelligence on planned terror activities.

On Thursday, Israel Police released footage showing the moment security forces prevented an imminent terror attack. Armed gunmen, who were in possession of a 100kg explosive device intended to harm IDF soldiers in the West Bank, were apprehended in the operation.

The announcement regarding the foiled attack was made earlier this week, though the incident and arrests occurred on January 11.

During the operation, forces arrested Ahmad Ali Zakarnah and Tariq Abu Zaid in Nablus while they were en route to carry out an attack. Their vehicle contained two loaded M-16 rifles, bulletproof vests, face masks, and a large quantity of ammunition.

According to the Shin Bet investigation, “the suspects were planning a shooting attack in Huwara and had received a 100 kg explosive device from terrorists affiliated with the Jenin Battalion, intended for use against IDF soldiers in the West Bank.”

Earlier this month, the Israeli Air Force targeted a terror cell traveling in a vehicle in Kabatiya as part of Operation Iron Wall, Israel’s ongoing counterterrorism mission in the West Bank.