In large overnight operation, Israel arrests 17 Palestinian terror suspects

The Israel Defense Forces on Monday announced the arrest of 17 Palestinian terror suspects in operations across the West Bank.

The operation represented an escalation in IDF activity, with larger than normal levels of troops and time spent in Palestinian territory.

The largest center of operational activity is Nur-al-Shams, where the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Health reported 13 wounded in clashes with Israeli security forces.

Video footage on social media showed improvised explosive devices (IEDs) exploding as armored D9 bulldozers cleared streets.

The IDF released a statement, saying, “During the activity, the security forces located and neutralized 10 explosive devices, apprehended a wanted suspect, and questioned suspects.”

“In addition, exchanges of fire took place in the area and suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire. Hits were identified,” according to the release.

The PA Health Ministry said 9 of the 13 injured had shrapnel wounds but did not indicate whether the injuries were caused by Israeli or Palestinian explosives.

Early on Tuesday morning, the IDF announced that three armed terrorists drove to the HaShomronim neighborhood in Nablus and opened fire toward IDF soldiers who were patrolling the area.

Soldiers returned fire, killing the terrorists.

The IDF also confiscated three M-16 rifles, a handgun, ammunition cartridges, and other military equipment.

There were no reported IDF injuries.