The mayor of Jenin, in the occupied West Bank, has drawn parallels between the recent Israeli assault on the Jenin Refugee Camp and the conflict in Gaza. Mohammad Jarrar stated that the destruction of 120 buildings and displacement of 15,000 people in Jenin is reminiscent of the situation in Gaza, albeit on a smaller scale.
Jarrar highlighted the devastating impact of the assault, with hundreds of residential units comprising the destroyed buildings and thousands of families affected. The scarcity of essential resources such as food, water, and medication has exacerbated the crisis, leading to further displacement.
Israel's military operation, dubbed 'Operation Iron Wall,' aimed to eliminate terrorists and their infrastructure in the camp. The operation has resulted in over 40 Palestinian fatalities across the West Bank, with 25 casualties reported in Jenin alone. The Palestinian Ministry of Health also noted numerous injuries in the region.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasized the inclusion of security in the West Bank as a key objective, signaling a shift in Israel's military strategy. The mayor of Jenin expressed concerns about the political motives behind the operation, suggesting a push towards annexation and Palestinian emigration.
The situation in Jenin has prompted the consideration of opening schools to accommodate displaced individuals, mirroring actions taken during the Gaza conflict. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees described Jenin camp as a 'ghost town,' emphasizing the dire living conditions and forced displacement of residents.
As tensions escalate in the West Bank, the UNRWA warned of potential repercussions on the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and conflict resolution.
