Israel’s Operation Breakwater aims to reduce the enemy’s ability to attack, but seems to be galvanising a new generation of fighters
Since Operation Breakwater began, it has become clear that al-Aqsa is engaging in new, closer cooperation with other militias, such as Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s al-Quds Brigade, to repel the intensifying Israeli operation.
For many in the city, the raid that killed Nablusi, allegedly with the help of the PA’s security forces, may prove to be a watershed moment. The killing of a 53-year-old male civilian on Tuesday during clashes between the PA’s security forces and al-Qassam brigade, the armed wing of Hamas, has amplified hostility towards the West Bank authority.
“There are young people who would gladly enter the political arena, roll up their sleeves and make a difference, but last year the door was slammed shut. They are angry and more militant because they have seen nothing but bloodshed and pain. There is a feeling of hopelessness,” she said.