Palestinian Authority's Decline Empowers West Bank Militants

Protests have erupted across the West Bank in solidarity with Gaza, as scenes of carnage from the ongoing conflict have deepened anger at the Western-backed Palestinian Authority and increased local support for Hamas. Palestinians are united in their opposition to Israeli airstrikes and settler violence, with calls for violent resistance growing. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has cut short a visit to Jordan and called the hospital strike in Gaza a "heinous war crime," while Palestinians criticize him for his muted presence during the conflict. Armed groups in the West Bank are preparing for potential clashes with the Israeli army, and tensions are escalating as the situation worsens.