The West Bank is currently at the heart of an intense military operation, with Tulkarem Governorate identified as one of the most heavily impacted areas. Since the Israeli military launched its latest campaign on January 21, 66 people have been killed, according to figures from the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Local officials report that the majority of those killed are civilians. The situation has left thousands of Palestinians displaced, with no clear timeline for when they can return home.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that displaced civilians will not be allowed to return until the operation concludes, which could extend until the end of the year. The military operation, aimed at targeting Palestinian militant groups responsible for attacks on Israeli soldiers and civilians, has seen the deployment of tanks to the West Bank for the first time in over two decades. However, Palestinians and human rights organizations argue that the assault has become increasingly indiscriminate, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
In Jenin camp, controlled explosions have destroyed buildings that the Israeli military claims housed explosives and other "terrorist infrastructure." The operation's impact is reminiscent of previous military actions in the Gaza Strip. Approximately 40,000 Palestinians have been displaced, forced to leave their homes and seek shelter elsewhere.
Fatima Tawfeeq, 63, has been displaced for the first time in more than twenty years. She now resides in a makeshift camp alongside her family and others who have fled their homes. Bedrolls and blankets serve as partitions to create makeshift family "rooms," offering a semblance of privacy amidst the chaos. Tawfeeq's grandson, Mahmoud, only 11 years old, recalls being woken in the early hours of the morning by loudspeakers.
"The Israeli military came and started calling on the loudspeakers," – Mahmoud
Mahmoud describes the hurried evacuation, noting that he left with nothing but the clothes on his back.
"I didn’t take anything with me. I left with the clothes I am wearing today." – Mahmoud
The displacement has affected many families in Tulkarem Governorate, a region already burdened with a significant refugee population. Amin Barghoush highlights the severe impact on residents.
"Tulkarem Governorate has become one of the most affected areas. We might have one of the highest refugee populations in the country," – Amin Barghoush
Barghoush describes the situation as one characterized by "comprehensive destruction" and economic hardship, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
"What we are witnessing is comprehensive destruction, an economic blockade and the devastation of infrastructure in the refugee camps." – Amin Barghoush
Despite the adversity, there are stories of resilience and determination among those affected. Mahmoud expresses a hopeful resolve amidst uncertainty and loss.
"Even if they demolish our house, we will rebuild it," – Mahmoud
Human rights groups have criticized the military operation as a form of collective punishment that fails to distinguish between combatants and civilians. They argue that such actions only further entrench hostilities and hinder prospects for peace. The destruction of civilian infrastructure not only displaces thousands but also disrupts essential services and livelihoods.
The Israeli military maintains that its operations are necessary to dismantle militant networks responsible for attacks against Israelis. However, critics argue that the strategy disproportionately affects civilians and exacerbates tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.
As the operation unfolds, families like Tawfeeq's continue to endure challenging conditions in temporary shelters. The lack of basic amenities in these camps amplifies their suffering. With no clear end in sight to their displacement, many are left wondering about their future.
