US condemns violence by 'all parties' in occupied West Bank

The US State Department on Saturday condemned violence by "all parties" in the occupied West Bank amid escalating Israeli military operations in the Palestinian territory, urging all actors to pursue stability as tensions flare following deadly clashes near Nablus.

Washington's Position

"We condemn violence by any party in the West Bank," a State Department spokesperson told Anadolu Agency on Saturday when asked about recent Israeli attacks and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's order for a "wide-scale military operation" in Palestinian villages. The official emphasized Washington's ongoing regional engagement.

"We are in regular dialogue with partners about improving stability and security in the West Bank," the spokesperson said. "A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration's goal to achieve peace in the region," the official added.

Northern West Bank Clashes

Israeli forces raided Tell near Nablus in the northern occupied West Bank for the second consecutive day on Saturday, installing a mobile structure and razing land according to local officials. The incursion followed Friday's violence when Israeli settlers — protected by military personnel — attacked the same town.

Friday's confrontation left four Palestinians dead and four others wounded, according to Palestinian sources. Two Israelis were also killed in a shooting during the clashes as residents confronted the attack, Palestinian and Israeli sources confirmed.