The Israeli military has expelled around 40,000 residents from three refugee camps in the occupied West Bank—Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated the camps would be occupied long-term by Israeli forces. This action is part of a wider military operation aimed at combating terrorism, resulting in international condemnation and escalating humanitarian concerns.
Israel Conducts Major Expulsion in West Bank Amid Intensified Military Operations
Israel Conducts Major Expulsion in West Bank Amid Intensified Military Operations
As tensions rise, Israel expels thousands from three refugee camps during a significant military escalation in the West Bank.
The Israeli military has executed a significant operation in the northern West Bank, resulting in the expulsion of thousands of residents from three refugee camps—Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams. Announced by Defence Minister Israel Katz, the camps are now described as "empty" and will be occupied by Israeli forces for the upcoming year.
Beginning on January 21, the operation has drawn considerable attention for its scale and implications, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) deploying a tank division around Jenin—marking the first such deployment since 2002. The intensified actions have reportedly led to the "forced displacement" of around 40,000 Palestinians.
Katz conveyed the intention to maintain a prolonged military presence in the cleared regions to prevent the return of residents and address the issue of terrorism. He announced that the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency (Unrwa) has been instructed to cease operations in these areas.
Condemnation came from Palestinian officials, including Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for President Mahmoud Abbas, calling the military's actions a "dangerous escalation" that threatens stability. The IDF continues to expand its operation, involving advanced military resources including drones, tanks, and special forces, further complicating the context of violence.
The United Nations reported that the military operations have resulted in the deaths of 51 Palestinians, including children, and significant damage to essential infrastructure, disrupting water access for thousands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Tulkarm and called for intensified operations against what he termed "terrorist strongholds," in the wake of suspected terror attacks within Israeli borders.
This military offensive occurs amidst a contentious backdrop of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a region occupied since the 1967 Six Day War. Despite international law deeming these settlements illegal, Israel has expanded its presence, housing around 700,000 Jews in the territory.
