IDF arrests 9 Palestinians in overnight operations in West Bank

Security forces comb more than 40 sites in West Bank as efforts continue to locate kidnapped Israeli teenagers.

By YAAKOV LAPPIN
IDF operation in West Bank (photo credit: IDF SPOKESMAN'S OFFICE)
IDF operation in West Bank
(photo credit: IDF SPOKESMAN'S OFFICE)
Security forces arrested nine Palestinian suspects overnight Thursday in the West Bank, and searched 49 sites as part the operation to locate three abducted Israeli youths.
The IDF found two handguns and an explosive in the town of Idna, where special forces arrested Hamas member Ziad Awawde in May on suspicion of killing a police officer and injuring his wife and son in their car in a Passover eve attack.
A thousand two hundred Israelis visited Joseph's Tomb on the outskirts of Nablus. The worshipers were secured by the army, which said it encountered minor disturbances during that nighttime event.
A senior security source said the IDF will continue operating in full force during Ramadan to search for the kidnapped youths.
"Forces are concentrated in the Etzion and Judea area, and are being led by the Kfir [infantry] Brigade commander, who is continuing to command over rolling operations, including [tightening] the intelligence circle," he said.
The source said the Shin Bet's decision to make public on Thursday the identity of the two main suspected kidnappers will not have a direct influence on security activity.
"The intelligence circle continues. With regards to publicizing information, we release what we can in time. With regards to publicizing information, I can't talk in detail about the significance of this," the source said.
During the Ramadan holiday, the IDF expects to see more Palestinians up at night after breaking the fast. Large numbers of Palestinians are also expected to visit the Temple Mount for prayers.