07 Feb 2020 | 06:12 AM UTC
Israel/Palestinian Terr.: Additional troops to deploy to the West Bank February 6 /update 1
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to deploy additional personnel into the West Bank following multiple violent incidents on February 6; further clashes likely over the coming days
Event
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will deploy additional personnel into the West Bank following multiple violent clashes with Palestinians on Thursday, February 6. At least four Palestinians were killed and 14 Israelis were wounded within a 24 hour period. According to media reports, almost 1000 additional security personnel will be deployed into the West Bank on Friday, February 7, as further violence is expected over the coming days. Palestinians may organize protests following Friday prayers and militants will likely continue to target Israeli soldiers in isolated attacks.
A heightened security presence is to be expected throughout Israel, particularly in Jerusalem and in the West Bank.
Context
Tensions have increased in the region since US President Donald Trump announced his Israeli-Palestinian peace plan on January 28. Palestinians have held multiple demonstrations in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank since the announcement, which have sometimes turned violent.
Advice
Individuals in the West Bank, and Israel more generally, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and public demonstrations as a precaution, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
Some Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and areas near the Israeli-Lebanese, Israeli-Syrian, and Israeli-Egyptian borders.
