Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing the Jenin refugee camp as Israel’s major military operation in the occupied West Bank approaches its conclusion. The ongoing large-scale raid, which commenced on Monday, marks one of the most significant military operations in the region in nearly two decades. It reflects Israel’s response to recent attacks on Israeli settlers. Moreover, mounting pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take decisive action.
The operation in Jenin exhibits familiar Israeli military tactics reminiscent of the second Palestinian uprising in the early 2000s. In a bid to address the attacks, including a shooting last month that claimed the lives of four individuals, the Israeli government seeks to demonstrate resolve.
An Israeli adviser affirmed on Tuesday that the operation is on the verge of achieving its objectives. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reported the arrest of 120 suspects and identified ten additional targets located at the centre of the Jenin refugee camp. In their relentless efforts to counter potential threats. The IDF successfully neutralized an explosive storage shaft within the camp and dismantled two operational rooms used by terrorist organizations.
Tragically, Palestinian officials have reported a significant toll on civilian lives. To date, ten Palestinians have been killed, and a staggering 100 others have been wounded as a result of the ongoing clashes.
The West Bank has remained under Israeli occupation since the 1967 Middle East war. Despite intermittent negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, its final status remains unresolved. Within this disputed territory, an estimated 2.1 to 3 million Palestinian Arabs live under a combination of limited self-rule and Israeli military control.
Jenin Camp’s Utilities Suffer Amidst Hostilities
Furthermore, the West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem, is home to approximately 430,000 Israeli Jews residing in 132 settlements. Along with 124 smaller outposts established during Israel’s occupation.
The recent hostilities have taken a toll on the infrastructure of the Jenin refugee camp. The UN has reported significant damage to electricity and water networks. Exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation for the camp’s residents.
As the West Bank operation draws to a close, international attention remains focused on finding a sustainable resolution to the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The complexities of competing claims to the territory underscore the need for continued efforts towards a just and lasting peace.
