The security forces of the authority have been attempting to apprehend numerous individuals labeled as outlaws who are trying to take control of the camp, originally established for Palestinians displaced from their homes following Israel’s establishment in 1948. The camp now houses around 25,000 residents and has become a densely populated area. Hamas refers to the armed groups within the camp as the “resistance,” a coalition that views the authority and its security forces as acting in favor of Israel.
Among the militant factions are the Al Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigade, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Qassem Brigades operating under the banner of the Jenin Battalion. Although the authority claims to have made significant progress within the camp, they lack the advanced technology and weaponry available to the Israeli military. Tragically, a member of the Palestinian Presidential Guard was killed by gunfire from militants on Sunday, and there have been casualties on both sides, including a militant leader and three teenagers.
The recent escalation in violence adds to the already deadly situation in the region. In September, Israel conducted a prolonged operation in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tubas in the northern West Bank, resulting in the death of at least 39 people and widespread destruction, as reported by the authority’s health ministry and the United Nations. This toll included at least nine militants, according to statements from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
Jenin has become a crucial test for the Palestinian Authority’s control and aspirations for broader administration of Palestinian territories, including a potential return to Gaza, which the Israeli government has consistently opposed. The Palestinian Authority’s ability to manage the situation in Jenin is seen as a decisive factor in determining its capability to govern effectively.
Furthermore, developments in Jenin are indicative of Iranian influence over the militant groups. One commander, Qais al Saa’di, acknowledged receiving support from Iran, raising concerns for Israeli security services. However, he emphasized that their allegiance lies with Palestine and not any external entity. Reports of Iranian-supplied weapons near Jenin have heightened tensions, with Israel taking measures to counter potential threats from Iran.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned against Iran’s attempts to establish a stronghold through support for militants, highlighting the construction of a barrier along the border with Jordan to prevent weapon smuggling. Palestinian security forces have accused Iran of fueling unrest to undermine the Palestinian Authority, in line with Iran’s broader strategic interests in the region.
The Jenin Battalion, located in the camp, is at the forefront of a new wave of Palestinian militancy in the occupied territories. The group’s increasing use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) has complicated efforts by Israeli and Palestinian authorities to combat them. Qais Al-Sa’adi informed CNN that IEDs had caused significant damage to Israeli military vehicles and issued a warning to security forces: “If you enter our area, you will face the same consequences.” He emphasized the group’s expertise in urban warfare, calling it a game-changer. Security forces accuse militants of jeopardizing innocent lives by planting explosive mines in streets and residences.
The situation in Jenin has divided Palestinian opinion. Assad Aqel, a 27-year-old fighter injured in an Israeli drone attack, expressed a need for protection from the Israeli military, which he felt was lacking from the Palestinian Authority. Residents highlighted the difficulty and danger imposed by the authority’s security operations, suggesting it amounted to collective punishment. By the end of the week, the camp faced water and electricity shortages, mounting garbage, and disrupted education for children.
Clashes between security forces and militants led to the suspension of UNRWA services in the camp. The agency condemned the occupation of its health center by armed actors. Some residents blamed security forces for the violence, with Umm Hani expressing fear and criticizing the Palestinian Authority. Protests against the operation highlighted opposition to the authority’s actions and called for dialogue between the authority and militants.
Residents lamented the deteriorating conditions, with Mahmoud al-Ghoul reporting water shortages and alleged damage to water tanks by security forces. Residents described feeling unsafe, unable to move freely, and facing challenges in accessing essential services like healthcare and medicine. The plea was made for the authority to identify alleged outlaws for surrender, in hopes of restoring peace to the camp.
“Residential compound,” referring to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’ residence in the West Bank city of Ramallah. Palestinian officials have frequently complained that they don’t have the equipment they need to confront the militants. The authority also appears to have little support in areas like Jenin’s refugee camp, which for now remains firmly under the control of the Jenin Battalion.
