An Israeli soldier was killed and an officer critically injured today in an explosion caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) in the northern West Bank, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday.
The soldier, identified as Aviatar Ben Yehuda from the reserve unit 8211 in the Efraim Brigade, lost his life during a military operation in the village of Tamun, south of Jenin.
The incident occurred around midnight when a military jeep fell into an ambush detonated by an IED, resulting in the soldier's death and injuries to four others, including the battalion commander who sustained serious wounds and is described as a seasoned combatant.
Following the explosion, a rescue operation was swiftly conducted without further incidents, with the IDF currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Recent developments have seen Israeli security and political officials intensifying security measures in the West Bank, particularly in light of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas in Gaza. There are concerns over escalating attacks and bolstering the infrastructure of resistance factions.
According to sources cited by Yedioth Ahronoth, the IDF is prepared to respond forcefully to any attempts by released prisoners to establish networks within the heart of the West Bank.
"We will identify any organization and open fire on any suspicion of terrorist activity, conducting operations from both air and ground," a source emphasized.
In response to escalating tensions, the IDF Central Command has deployed an additional seven battalions to strengthen security measures in the West Bank.
Military checkpoints have been set up across the region, and security posts have been established to inspect vehicles traveling on shared roads between Israelis and Palestinians, aiming to thwart firearm attacks.
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