In a rare internal clash, Palestinian security force fatally shot Islamic Jihad gunman
- In Reports
- 04:26 PM, May 02, 2024
- Myind Staff
Palestinian security officers in the occupied West Bank killed a gunman, sparking a rare clash within the Palestinian territory. The circumstances surrounding the incident were disputed, with the fighter's faction likening it to an Israeli-style "assassination".
According to Palestinian Authority security services spokesperson Talak Dweikat, a patrol force deployed to Tulkarm overnight encountered gunfire and responded by firing back, ultimately hitting the gunman. The individual succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Videos depicting a car being struck by gunfire circulated online, although Reuters was unable to immediately verify their authenticity.
The Tulkarm and Nour Shams Camp Brigades, a local armed group, asserted that the deceased individual, Ahmed Abu al-Foul, was a member affiliated with the predominantly militant organization Islamic Jihad.
The brigades issued a statement alleging that Al-Foul was targeted in his car without provocation, describing the incident as a treacherous act comparable to assassinations carried out by Israeli Special Forces.
The Palestinian Authority, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, exercises limited self-rule in the West Bank and occasionally collaborates on security matters with Israel.
However, certain areas of the region have experienced instability and economic hardship, leading to mutual accusations between the PA and Israel. These tensions have escalated further following Israel's military operations in Gaza.
Hamas, an ally of Islamic Jihad ruling the Gaza Strip, criticised the Palestinian Authority's security forces for their actions against civilians and resistance fighters.
In the past year, Palestinian security forces and gunmen have engaged in gunfire exchanges multiple times, although fatalities have been infrequent.
Image source: The Economic Post
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