IDF REVERSES: Palestinian Families In Kusra Allowed To Remain In Their Homes

The IDF announced Thursday that it has reversed an earlier decision to evacuate Palestinian families from their homes in the village of Kusra during a military operation. Forces deploying in the area Thursday morning have been instructed to allow residents to remain in their homes, according to a new IDF statement. The military also clarified that troops will not operate inside a Palestinian family home located near a recently evacuated structure.

"Since the morning hours, IDF forces have been deploying in the area of the village of Kusra in order to protect residents and maintain security in the area," The IDF said. "The forces have been instructed to allow residents of the village to remain in their homes."

The original operational plan, expected to remain in effect through Sunday, had called for Palestinian residents to be temporarily removed from several homes while IDF troops took control of buildings for operational purposes. The village has been subject to recent tensions following confrontations involving Jewish extremists and local Palestinian residents, drawing international attention and condemnation including from the United States. Under the revised plan, families will remain in their homes while military forces maintain a presence to protect residents and preserve security.