The operation in Tulkarm is indicative of the heightened tensions in the region, particularly following the conflict escalation in Gaza that began in early October.
The use of heavy military equipment and the reported deployment of snipers highlight the severity of the confrontations between Israeli forces and Palestinian residents.
The ongoing violence and military actions are contributing to a significant humanitarian crisis, with increasing numbers of casualties and injuries among civilians.
The continued military operations by Israeli forces may lead to further escalations in violence in the West Bank, potentially affecting regional stability.
Increased international scrutiny and calls for humanitarian intervention may arise as the situation deteriorates further.
The ongoing conflict is likely to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, leading to more casualties and destruction in Palestinian territories.
Israeli Military Withdrawal from Tulkarm Leaves Behind Tragedy and Destruction
On November 7, 2024, the Israeli army completed a military operation in Tulkarm and the Nour Shams refugee camps in the northern occupied West Bank, resulting in significant casualties and extensive damage. The operation, which lasted approximately 16 hours, led to the death of a Palestinian named Abdullah Al-Saadi, a retired intelligence officer, and left five others injured, including vulnerable individuals such as a woman and a young man with disabilities.
Eyewitnesses reported that the Israeli forces executed a coordinated incursion from multiple directions, accompanied by the use of bulldozers and snipers, amidst ongoing clashes with local Palestinian fighters. The head of the Popular Committee in Tulkarm, Faisal Salama, described the aftermath as devastating, with severe destruction to infrastructure, streets, and residential properties. He highlighted that the Israeli army's actions included preventing medical crews from accessing the camp to assist the injured.
This military action is part of a broader escalation in violence that has intensified since October 7, 2023, coinciding with the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. According to official Palestinian data, approximately 779 Palestinians have been killed and around 6,300 injured in the West Bank amidst increasing attacks from Israeli forces and settlers. The situation has been exacerbated by what many are calling a humanitarian disaster, with significant loss of life and widespread destruction affecting countless civilians, particularly children and women.
