Israeli military operations displace over 40,000 Palestinians in West Bank

Thousands of Palestinians have been forced to leave their homes due to ongoing Israeli military operations in the occupied West Bank, with the refugee camps of Tulkarm, Nur Shams, and Jenin at the epicentre of destruction and displacement.

According to B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights organisation monitoring developments in the occupied territories, around 40,000 residents have been uprooted so far this year.

The extensive campaign has left once-bustling neighbourhoods virtually uninhabitable.

Israel’s military has defended its actions, stating that operations in northern West Bank cities like Jenin and Tulkarm are aimed at neutralising militant strongholds. “This requires the demolition of buildings, allowing the forces to operate freely and move unhindered within the area,” said a military spokesperson, calling the demolitions “an operational necessity” after considering alternatives.

However, critics argue that the widespread destruction far exceeds tactical needs. In a recent visit, Reuters witnessed bulldozers flattening entire streets, with locals salvaging what belongings they could - chairs, blankets, and cooking utensils stacked onto trucks amid the rubble.

Tulkarm’s governor, Abdullah Kamil, condemned the military actions, saying, “What is happening in Tulkarm is an Israeli political decision, the issue has nothing to do with security.” He added, “There is nothing left in the camp, it has become a ghost camp.”

Since January, Israel’s northern West Bank operation has expanded significantly. It now ranks among the largest military campaigns since the Second Intifada, deploying troops, drones, helicopters, and tanks.

International observers and human rights groups have expressed concern that the aggressive tactics resemble those used in Gaza. “In the northern West Bank, Israel has begun replicating tactics and combat doctrines honed in its current offensive on Gaza,” said Shai Parnes of B’Tselem. He cited “widespread and deliberate destruction of homes and civilian infrastructure, and forced displacement of civilians from areas designated by the military as combat zones.”

While hardline Israeli voices continue to push for formal annexation of the West Bank, government officials maintain the objective is limited to security and counter-terrorism. The military reiterated its compliance with international law.

For the displaced, the immediate concern is survival. Governor Kamil said that the influx of homeless families has put overwhelming pressure on already fragile communities. Thousands are now packed into schools, mosques, and overcrowded family homes.