IDF Operation in Jenin Results in Death of 13 Terrorists

January 23, 2025

12:27 PM

Reading time: 4 minutes


On Wednesday night, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet forces conducted a successful counterterrorism operation in and around the Palestinian village of Jenin, resulting in the deaths of 13 terrorists. Among those killed were two individuals directly involved in the January 6 Kedumim terror attack, which left three Israelis dead and eight others wounded.

The operation aimed to neutralize the main terror cell in Jenin, which had been linked to recent attacks, including the Kedumim shooting. The IDF identified two of the terrorists responsible for the attack on a passing bus and civilian cars, which resulted in the deaths of Rachel Cohen (73), Aliza Reiss (70), and Israel Police St.-Sgt.-Maj. Elad Winkelstein (35). The attackers, Mohamad Nazzal and Katiba Shalabi, both residents of Qabatiya, were cornered in the Burqin area near Jenin.

The operation also involved the Duvdevan special forces chasing and cornering the terrorists, with significant air power deployed to target and neutralize the cell. While some 2,000 Palestinians voluntarily evacuated from the refugee camp, the IDF reported that there were still civilians remaining in the area, leading to careful rules of engagement to avoid harming innocent lives.

The operation is part of a larger effort by the IDF to counteract terrorism in the West Bank, and despite the extensive military activity, officials do not expect a long-term occupation of Jenin. The aim is to dismantle terror capabilities without prolonged military presence.

In a tragic reminder of the toll of the January 6 terror attack, Winkelstein’s wife and children were in the car when he was killed. He was a father of three and had served as the security coordinator for the town of Kedumim. Cohen and Reiss, both school counselors, were also victims of the attack, leaving behind their families and loved ones.

The IDF continues to strengthen its efforts to combat terrorism in the region and ensure the safety of Israeli civilians. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized additional offensive and defensive measures in the area to further counter terrorist activities.

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