RAMALLAH, June 18 (Xinhua) -- A Palestinian man was killed by Israeli forces on Wednesday for allegedly attempting a stabbing attack near the West Bank city of Bethlehem, while at least 60 Palestinians were detained during Israeli raids across the West Bank, according to Palestinian and Israeli sources.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health said in a press statement that it had been informed by the General Authority for Civil Affairs of the death of Moataz al-Hajjajleh, 21, who was fatally shot by Israeli forces in the town of al-Walaja, west of Bethlehem.
The ministry added that Israeli forces seized the body.
In a press statement, the Israeli military said the incident occurred during an operation in al-Walaja, during which a suspect allegedly attempted to stab soldiers and seize their weapons.
The army said its personnel responded by opening fire, killing the suspect. No Israeli injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, a non-governmental organization, said in a press statement that Israeli forces arrested at least 60 Palestinians during overnight raids in various areas of the West Bank.
The detainees include former prisoners, women, and minors, according to the organization.
Palestinian human rights groups estimate that more than 10,000 Palestinians have been arrested by Israeli forces across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since the outbreak of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023.
Amid escalating regional tensions, the Palestinian Authority's Jerusalem Governorate said on Wednesday that Israeli authorities have continued the closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for the sixth consecutive day.
The governorate reported tightened security measures at entrances to the Old City of Jerusalem.
Israel captured the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, during the 1967 Six-Day War. East Jerusalem is regarded under international law as occupied Palestinian territory, and Israel's annexation of the area is not internationally recognized. ■
