Israel Vows Full-Scale Campaign Against Palestinian Authority if Terror Escalates

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on Sunday that the IDF will pursue and capture the terrorist who carried out a stabbing attack in the West Bank, which injured one Israeli. "The IDF will pursue and capture the terrorist," Katz said, wishing the victim a swift recovery.

Katz outlined Israel's policy in the West Bank, emphasizing the pursuit of Palestinian terror, the development of Jewish settlement, and the maintenance of security stability. He asserted that terror in the West Bank is currently at its lowest level in decades, and Israel will take all necessary steps to prevent its resurgence.

However, Katz warned that if Palestinian Authority security mechanisms initiate or are known to be planning terror attacks similar to the October 7th onslaught against IDF forces and Jewish settlements, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and he have instructed the IDF to prepare for a comprehensive war against PA leadership, its security apparatus, and all terror infrastructure in the West Bank. The goal would be their swift and complete defeat.

"We will not allow a return to a reality of a prolonged intifada spanning years, as happened in the past," Katz declared. "Instead, we will launch a comprehensive campaign against the PA and all terror infrastructure in the West Bank, including eliminating senior officials, evacuating residents from areas where terror activity originates, destroying all terror infrastructure, and maintaining an IDF presence in evacuated areas." He drew parallels to operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and the refugee camps in Jenin and northern Samaria.

Katz concluded by reiterating Israel's commitment to preventing a repeat of October 7th and ensuring the security of Israeli residents and communities everywhere.