Israeli military air strikes and Gaza militants clash after Palestinian prisoner dies in custody
In response to the death of a Palestinian prisoner in Israeli custody, tensions have escalated as the Israeli military conducted air strikes, and both Israel and Gaza militants traded fire. 45-year-old prisoner Khader Adnan died after being detained in the occupied West Bank for nearly three months due to his links with the Islamic Jihad militant group. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh accused Israel of a “deliberate assassination,” claiming neglect of Adnan’s medical needs and denying his release requests.
Following news of Adnan’s death, Gaza militants fired three rockets, prompting retaliatory tank fire by Israel, followed by an additional 22 projectiles launched from Gaza. Hamas and other Gaza militant factions have declared this an “initial response” to the incident. The Magen David Adom emergency service has reported that three people were wounded by shrapnel in the Sderot area, near the Gaza border.
After meeting with military officials, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant warned that anyone attempting to harm Israeli citizens would “be sorry.” Meanwhile, Palestinians initiated a general strike in West Bank cities. Israeli forces often detain Palestinians, who then face the jurisdiction of Israeli military courts.
Islamic Jihad, which is considered a terrorist organisation by the European Union and the United States, has previously warned that Israel would “pay the price for this crime.” However, Khader Adnan’s wife, Randa Mousa, has urged militants to avoid resorting to violence, reports Bangkok Post.
