Statements from the Palestinian Authority and news reports

First Israeli Airstrike in West Bank Since Intifada Hits Café, Killing Up to 20 in Tulkarm

Oct 3, 2024, 07:50 PM

Israeli forces conducted an airstrike on a café in the Al-Hamam neighborhood of the Tulkarm refugee camp in the occupied West Bank on October 3, resulting in multiple Palestinian casualties. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that a fighter jet carried out the strike as part of a joint operation with the Shin Bet security agency. The target was reported to be a building housing militants, including members of Islamic Jihad. Among those killed was Ghaith Radwan, a senior member of Islamic Jihad in Tulkarm. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 14 Palestinians were killed, with some reports indicating the number could be as high as 20. The attack marks the first time since the Second Intifada that Israeli fighter jets have conducted airstrikes in the West Bank, representing a significant escalation in the region.