Over 12,000 Palestinian children forcibly displaced in West Bank: UNRWA

More than 12,000 Palestinian children are living in a state of forced displacement in the occupied West Bank as a result of an ongoing Israeli military operation, according to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The agency stated the displacement is a direct consequence of Israel's campaign in the northern West Bank, which began in January 2025.

Scope of the Military Operation and Displacement

Since January 21, 2025, the Israeli army has conducted operations centered on the Jenin refugee camp, later expanding to Nur Shams and Tulkarem camps. Israeli forces have imposed a siege, accompanied by extensive destruction of infrastructure, homes, and shops. Official figures indicate approximately 50,000 Palestinians have been displaced overall. In response, UNRWA launched an emergency education program in February 2025, providing temporary learning spaces, online teaching, self-learning materials, and psychosocial support for affected students.

Broader Context of Violence and International Law

The situation adds to the severe toll in the West Bank since October 2023, where Palestinian figures report at least 1,105 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces and settlers, nearly 11,000 injured, and around 21,000 detained. This ongoing violence and displacement contravene the International Court of Justice's landmark opinion from July, which declared Israel's occupation illegal and called for the evacuation of all settlements. The humanitarian crisis underscores the urgent need for international protection and accountability, a position consistently advocated by nations including Türkiye, which calls for an end to occupation and sustained humanitarian access.