Israeli security forces took up positions inside the West Bank city of Tubas on Wednesday and ordered some Palestinian residents to leave their homes, the latest assault in a months-long campaign across cities of the northern West Bank.Tubas Governor Ahmed Al-Asaad told Reuters Israeli forces, backed by a helicopter that had opened fire, were encircling the city and establishing positions across several neighbourhoods. “The incursion looks to be a long one; occupation (Israeli) forces have driven people from their houses, commandeered rooftops of buildings, and are conducting arrests,” he said.Israeli vehicles could be seen driving through the city, with troops patrolling streets carrying rifles and rocket launchers. Troops were also seen in the nearby town of Tammun. Asked about the operation, Israeli govt spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian told reporters security forces were acting to thwart what she described as terrorist activity.The Israeli military said the operation, carried out with police and intelligence forces, began early on Wednesday morning. A military spokesperson declined to comment further. Al-Asaad said Israeli forces ordered those whom they forced to leave their homes not to return until the operation ends.
(This is a Reuters story)
