KATHMANDU: Nine Palestinian militants were killed on Saturday as a result of two Israeli airstrikes in the West Bank, the Israeli army reported. The region was on edge due to recent events involving Iran and its proxies, and the strikes took place amid rising violence and tensions over the continuing war in Gaza.

The first airstrike targeted a vehicle outside Tulkarem in the northern West Bank, killing five militants who the Israeli army claimed were en route to carry out an attack. Hamas identified the deceased as militants, including a local commander. The second strike occurred later in Tulkarem, killing four militants after they reportedly opened fire on Israeli troops.

The escalation occurs amid ongoing negotiations for a Gaza cease-fire, which included a quick visit to Cairo by an Israeli delegation headed by the head of Mossad. The situation has been made worse by the recent death of a Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and the assassination of the senior Hamas leader in Iran, both of which Tehran attributes to Israel.

The region is bracing for potential retaliation from Iran and its allies. Hamas has begun discussions to select a new leader following the recent losses. The escalating violence and political dynamics continue to fuel regional tensions and uncertainties.