Destruction of Infrastructure in the West Bank
The ongoing military operations in the West Bank have resulted in massive destruction to vital infrastructure, according to Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Israeli forces’ actions have severely impacted tens of thousands of people residing in four refugee camps, leading to significant damage to both public and private facilities. This devastation has forced UNRWA to suspend its services in many areas, exacerbating the plight of those affected.
Humanitarian Crisis and Civilian Casualties
The humanitarian crisis has deepened, with reports indicating that more than 150 Palestinian children have lost their lives since the onset of the conflict. UNICEF has highlighted the tragic toll on the younger population, emphasizing the urgent need for a political solution to alleviate the suffering of civilians. Lazzarini has called for an end to the ongoing conflict, stressing that the time has come for a political resolution to this decades-long struggle.
Escalation of Violence in the Region
The Israeli military operations have intensified, particularly in the Tulkarm and Jenin governorates, where a recent operation led to the deaths of 19 Palestinians and injuries to dozens more. The scale of this violence marks the largest military operation since 2002, with the Israeli army continuing its raids amidst ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Since October 7, the death toll in the West Bank has surged, with reports indicating that 670 Palestinians have been killed, including 150 children, and thousands more injured or arrested. This escalation highlights the urgent need for international attention and intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.
