The situation in Jenin, located in the north of the West Bank, has escalated dramatically as the Israel Defense Force (IDF) has demolished dozens of buildings in a series of operations aimed at countering terrorism.
Destruction of Buildings
On Sunday, the IDF carried out a major operation resulting in the demolition of 23 structures, primarily multistory residential buildings. This action is part of a broader “counterterrorist operation” that began nearly two weeks ago, as confirmed by various news sources including the Jerusalem Post.
Government Orders and Displacement
The demolitions were reportedly ordered by Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz, who stated that any buildings linked to “terrorist activity” should be destroyed. According to the WAFA news agency, affiliated with the Palestinian Authority, these demolitions have led to the displacement of a large number of families, with about 15,000 people forcibly displaced from the Jenin refugee camp and surrounding areas.
Impact on Local Infrastructure
In addition to the destruction of residential buildings, the IDF’s operations have also damaged essential infrastructure, including local water supply lines. Reports indicate that blasts from the demolitions affected a nearby hospital, although no casualties have been reported as a result of the demolitions.
Casualties and Ongoing Operations
Since the beginning of the operation, the WAFA agency has reported that at least 25 Palestinians have been killed, with many more injured. The IDF claims to have conducted ground operations in various locations, including the town of Tammun, where they allege to have killed at least 50 “terrorists” and arrested around 100 “suspects”.
Context of the Operations
This military campaign, dubbed the ‘Iron Wall’, was initiated shortly after a ceasefire was reached with Hamas in Gaza, following prolonged conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu articulated that the objective of this operation is to “eradicate terrorism” in the region, targeting what he described as the “Iranian axis” involved in arms distribution.
„`
