In a significant escalation of military operations, the Israeli army has intensified its activities in the occupied West Bank by implementing expanded shooting orders. These new directives permit soldiers to target Palestinians, even those who are unarmed.

This policy, reminiscent of tactics used during the Gaza war, has resulted in an “unusual” increase in fatalities, with over 30 Palestinians killed since January 21 in military operations concentrated in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tammun, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

Reports from Haaretz indicate that the Israeli army’s Central Command, led by General Avi Blot, has authorized troops to “pull the trigger with intent to kill” without the need to detain suspects. Soldiers interviewed described how these directives allow them to shoot any Palestinian accused of “disrupting the area” or allegedly linked to explosive devices, even if they do not pose an immediate threat.

The escalation also includes specific orders from the head of the West Bank Division, Yaki Dolf, instructing soldiers to shoot at vehicles leaving combat zones and approaching checkpoints. An incident on Sunday saw two Palestinians killed by Israeli troops while driving near a checkpoint. Witnesses reported that the vehicle did not display any signs of threat, although the army linked it to “suspicious activities.”

Haaretz also reported the use of Palestinian civilians as human shields during building searches, a practice carried over from Gaza operations and prohibited under international law. This strategy, along with nighttime raids, heightens tensions in towns like Jenin, where military incursions have surged since January.

Ceasefire in Gaza and Crisis in the West Bank

The Israeli offensive in the West Bank coincides with a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, agreed upon on January 19 after 15 months of bombings that resulted in 48,200 Palestinian deaths. However, violence in the occupied territory has not ceased. Since the war began on October 7, 2023, at least 910 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces or settlers, according to official figures.

Despite the testimonies collected, the Israeli army has denied any changes to its engagement rules. “There are no alterations in the protocols for the West Bank,” it stated in an official communiqué. Nevertheless, human rights organizations and Palestinian authorities are calling for independent investigations in light of the increasing summary executions and the humanitarian impact.

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to present strict conditions for the second phase of the ceasefire to the Security Cabinet, including the expulsion of Hamas leaders from Gaza, the dismantling of the Qassam Brigades, and the release of 76 Israeli captives. According to Israeli media, if these demands are rejected, Israel might extend the first phase of the ceasefire without committing to ending the conflict, maintaining control over the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

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