PA worse for terrorists than Israel

Unprecedented Incident in Jenin: Terrorists Surrender to IDF Forces

In an unusual and potentially precedent-setting event in Jenin, two terrorists from the local "Jenin Battalions" terror group voluntarily surrendered to Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) forces. The terrorists approached an IDF checkpoint and turned themselves in, citing fears of being arrested by the Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces during their ongoing operations in Jenin.

Eliana Fleming | JFeed | 19:20 29.12.24 | 1 min read

Armed Palestinians attend a funeral in Kafr Dan, west of Jenin, in the West Bank, June 12, 2024 (Photo by Nasser Ishtayeh/Flash90 )

Defense officials, as reported by Doron Kadosh on Galei Tzahal, described the incident as highly unordinary, noting that such a situation—where terrorists seek refuge with Israel to avoid arrest by the PA—has not been recorded before. Typically, the reverse occurs, with individuals turning themselves into the PA to avoid Israeli arrest.

Since the PA launched its operation in Jenin, it has detained over 150 individuals linked to the Jenin Battalions, either directly or indirectly. Meanwhile, the United States has been pressuring Israel to approve the transfer of ammunition to the PA's security forces to support their operations. The requested transfer includes Kalashnikov rifles, ammunition, and armored vehicles.

However, after deliberations within Israel's defense establishment, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi advised against authorizing the transfer. Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant supported this recommendation, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided to reject the U.S. request despite ongoing diplomatic pressure.