Jerusalem: The Israeli army launched a surprise military drill in the occupied West Bank on Friday, mobilizing all battalions of its division operating in the territory. The exercise comes amid ongoing Israeli attacks against Palestinians and ahead of the Jewish holiday season.

According to Anadolu Agency, the army stated that the drill was initiated to test the preparedness and operational readiness of its forces. It further mentioned that all battalions of the West Bank Division had been mobilized to respond to 'various surprise scenarios.'

The military exercise is part of the army's preparations for the upcoming Jewish holidays, which begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, followed by Yom Kippur on September 20 and Sukkot on September 25. Israel typically increases its military measures and restrictions on Palestinian movement across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem during these periods.

The army indicated that the drill would continue until Friday afternoon, involving the deployment and intensified movement of Israeli security forces throughout the territory. The West Bank has been experiencing ongoing Israeli escalation, including raids on Palestinian cities, towns, and refugee camps, as well as arrests, demolitions, and land bulldozing.

Israel has occupied the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since 1967 and has established settlements there that are considered illegal under international law.