Operation Defensive Shield and Church of the Nativity siege

In 2002, following the tragic Passover massacre, Israel initiated Operation Defensive Shield, a military campaign aimed at curbing Palestinian militant activities. This operation led to intense confrontations between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Palestinian fighters, particularly in the city of Jenin, where heavy fighting ensued. Concurrently, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem became a focal point of conflict as it was besieged by the IDF for a week. The siege drew international attention and culminated in successful negotiations that allowed for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the church, which is a significant religious site for Christians. The year also witnessed the interception of the Karine A freighter, which was found to be carrying weapons from Iran, further escalating tensions in the region. Additionally, the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 1397, reaffirming the commitment to a two-state solution amidst ongoing violence, including a deadly Hamas attack in Netanya. These events marked a critical period in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the complexities and challenges of achieving peace in the region.