It was the first time since 2002 the IDF has used combat helicopters to carry out open air strikes in Judea and Samaria.

By Pesach Benson, TPS

Fighting in Jenin continued into the afternoon as clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians escalated to include helicopter strikes for the first time in years.

The strikes came after three Palestinian terrorists were killed and seven Israeli soldiers wounded during clashes that broke out during an Israeli counter-terror operation in the city.

The IDF said its forces came under fire during an arrest raid. The Tazpit Press Service has learned that the one of the arrested Palestinians is Hassem Abu Aleija, a Hamas figure who was released by Israel in January.

Soldiers returned fire but the IDF was forced to launch a rescue operation to extract some of the troops. During rescue operation, Palestinians detonated explosives buried under the road, damaging at least two military vehicles. Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the explosives.

“Combat helicopters fired in the area of ​​the city of Jenin after identifying armed men. During the operation in Jenin, there was a massive exchange of fire with armed men, and many charges were thrown at the forces who responded with fire,” the IDF said.

The IDF said two soldiers and five members of the Border Police were injured. All were evacuated for medical treatment for light-moderate injuries.

With Palestinians firing on the trapped soldiers and throwing explosives, the IDF brought in Apache attack helicopters to cover the rescue. It was the first time since 2002 that the military has used combat helicopters to carry out open air strikes in Judea and Samaria.

Palestinian sources say 37 Palestinians were injured.