"Iran-backed Islamic Jihad Expands Fighting Units in West Bank, Says Chief"

Islamic Jihad chief Ziad Nakhaleh announced that his Iran-backed group is forming fighting units throughout the West Bank, with the support of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Nakhaleh stated that the goal is to transition from a state of calm to one of resistance in the region. He also mentioned the establishment of "fighting battalions" in Palestinian cities, the manufacturing of explosives, and the distribution of arms. Nakhaleh downplayed the extent of Iranian backing but acknowledged security-military assistance. The interview comes amid heightened Israeli-Palestinian tensions, with increased military raids, deadly attacks, and settler violence in the West Bank.