Israel launched Operation Defensive Shield in response to a series of devastating suicide bomb attacks

In March 2002, Israel launched Operation Defensive Shield in response to a series of devastating suicide bomb attacks, including the tragic Passover massacre, which claimed numerous civilian lives. This military operation was aimed at dismantling the terrorist infrastructure in the West Bank, a region that had seen escalating violence during the Second Intifada. The operation involved extensive military incursions into Palestinian cities and refugee camps, with the goal of targeting militant groups responsible for the attacks. Concurrently, Israeli communities near Gaza, such as Sderot, faced ongoing shelling and mortar attacks, further intensifying the security concerns for Israel. In light of these threats, the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, also initiated the construction of a barrier around the West Bank. This barrier was intended to prevent unauthorized crossings and reduce the risk of further attacks, although it has been a subject of significant controversy and debate regarding its impact on Palestinian communities. Operation Defensive Shield marked a significant escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the complex and often violent dynamics of the region during this period.