Elite IDF counter-terrorism force ‘busted’ in undercover operation

Palestinians reported an undercover IDF squad operating in Tamoun, near Jenin, was identified.

Riots erupt on site, soldiers injured.

Elior Levy, AP

 

Riots in Tamoun – Photos: AP

Raid gone wrong: Palestinian sources in the West Bank reported Tuesday that riots broke out in the West Bank village of Tamoun, near Jenin, after an undercover IDF unit operating in the area was exposed.

Three soldiers sustained mild injuries and were evacuated to a nearby hospital.

The Palestinians said that the troops were disguised as vegetable vendors and and sought to seize members of a militant group.

 

זירת עימות בטמון (צילום: AP)

Riots in Tamoun – Photos: AP

The force was apparently part of the Mistaarvim (“Arabized”) Unit – an elite counter-terrorism force whose members serve in various IDF divisions.

According to reports, massive IDF forces were scrambled to the scene and are using crowd-control measures to contain the riot.

זירת עימות בטמון (צילום: AP)

Checkpoints and blockades have been set up in the area, which has been declared a closed military zone. – Photos: AP

Checkpoints and blockades have been set up in the area, which has been declared a closed military zone.

Residents in the town of Tamoun said youths were tossing stones and bottles at Israeli troops, while the soldiers responded with what appears to be live fire.

Medical sources with the Red Crescent said that 30 Palestinians were wounded in the clash, from apparent rubber-bullet impact.

According to the Red Crescent, 100 Palestinians suffered light injuries from inhaling tear gas.

 

View original Ynet publication at: http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4327346,00.html