Israel Police Arrest 10 Suspects in Benjamin Region Violence Sweep

Israeli police, in cooperation with the Shin Bet and the IDF, arrested ten suspects in the Benjamin region on Monday morning as part of an extensive operation dubbed "Olive Branch." The sweep followed violent incidents over the weekend, including the assault of a journalist and alleged attacks on foreign diplomats near the village of Taybeh. The operation aimed to apprehend individuals involved in the recent violence and those violating military closure orders.

Authorities stated that evidence, findings, and testimonies were gathered in the days preceding the operation to identify and arrest those responsible. The sweep, conducted at multiple locations in the Benjamin region, involved dozens of police officers, special patrol units, border police, IDF forces, and aerial support. The police reported seizing evidence linking the suspects to the alleged acts and confiscating several vehicles.

Police clarified that the arrests were not solely related to the weekend's violence. Some suspects were detained for allegedly violating an IDF order prohibiting presence in a closed military zone and for illegal construction offenses. The detainees were transferred for interrogation by the Judea and Samaria District's central unit and police stations in the Samaria region, depending on the specific charges.

Attorneys from the Honenu organization are providing legal assistance to nine of the detainees, stating that the exact nature of the suspicions against them is currently unclear. Commander of the Judea and Samaria District, Superintendent Moshe Fintzy, emphasized the operation's goal of bringing those involved in the weekend's serious violence to justice. Inspector General of the Israel Police, Commissioner Danny Levy, stressed that law enforcement in Judea and Samaria must be applied equally to all, regardless of identity or affiliation, and that the police are committed to professional, impartial enforcement based on evidence and law.