Israel has begun a major month-long operation in the occupied West Bank, expelling the residents of three refugee camps in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams. The Defence Minister, Israel Katz, stated that the camps are now “empty” and will be occupied by Israeli military forces for the coming year.
The UN reported earlier this month that 40,000 Palestinians had been forced to evacuate their homes due to the operation. The Palestinian Authority has condemned the move, calling it a “dangerous escalation” that will not lead to stability or calm.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have deployed a tank division around Jenin city, marking the first time this has happened since 2002. The IDF claims its forces are conducting an operation to thwart terrorism and expand their activity against militant groups.
The UN says that severe damage has been caused to water and sanitation infrastructure, affecting tens of thousands of people. Seven children have been killed in the conflict, as well as three Israeli soldiers.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has visited a refugee camp, ordering the army to intensify its operations. His visit followed an explosion in Tel Aviv that officials described as a suspected terror attack.
The West Bank was occupied by Israel in 1967 and over 700,000 Jews now live in settlements considered illegal under international law.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg70r9enm7po