Israel extends Tulkarem offensive amid displacement concerns
Israel has prolonged its military operations in refugee camps in the occupied West Bank, with Palestinian officials warning that the move signals a broader strategy of displacement and sustained pressure on civilian populations.
Palestinian authorities said the Israeli army will continue its operations in the Tulkarem and Nur Shams camps until the end of May, following a notification delivered to residents. The extension comes as part of ongoing military activity in northern West Bank areas.
Officials warn of worsening humanitarian conditions
Tulkarem Governor Abdullah Kamil said the decision reflects an intention to continue policies he described as forced displacement, including demolitions and infrastructure damage. He warned that extending the operation would further deteriorate already strained living conditions for civilians in the camps.
The Israeli campaign in Tulkarem and Nur Shams began on Jan. 27, shortly after a separate military operation was launched in the Jenin refugee camp, expanding Israel’s footprint across key areas of the northern West Bank.
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PLO condemns expansion of operations
The Palestine Liberation Organization’s Department of Refugee Affairs criticised the move, describing it as part of an ongoing pattern of escalation targeting Palestinian refugee camps. The body said the operations reflect a broader policy aimed at systematic destruction and displacement.
It added that the camps hold symbolic significance linked to the historical displacement of Palestinians, making them a focal point in the current conflict dynamics.
Calls for international intervention
Palestinian officials urged the international community, including the United Nations and relevant bodies such as the Security Council and Human Rights Council, to intervene and halt the operations. They also called for measures to ensure protection for civilians in affected areas.
Rising toll in the West Bank
Since October 2023, Israeli military actions in the West Bank have resulted in over 1,100 Palestinian deaths, with approximately 11,700 injuries and tens of thousands of arrests reported. The continued expansion of operations raises concerns over further escalation and humanitarian impact across the territory.
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