Israeli army detains dozens in West Bank raids

By Awad Rjoob and Mahmut Geldi

RAMALLAH, Palestine (AA) - Israeli forces detained around 70 Palestinians in a series of raids targeting homes in the occupied West Bank.

Eyewitnesses said Israeli soldiers stormed several homes in the town of Deir Istiya in Salfit governorate.

The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that Israeli troops have repeatedly raided Deir Istiya in recent days, blocking the town's entrances and exits with barriers.

Elderly residents were among those detained, according to WAFA.

Israeli troops also raided a shop in Haris, a village in Salfit, and opened fire on Palestinians in the city of Jenin.

Separately, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian vehicles with stones in the West Bank city of Qalqilya, causing damage.

Since Israel launched its attack on the Gaza Strip on Oct.7, 2023, there has been an increase in arrests, raids and attacks targeting Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.