West Bank: An ongoing Israeli military operation in the Jenin refugee camp, West Bank, has left the area in ruins, displacing thousands and causing widespread destruction not seen in over two decades. The raid, targeting Iranian-backed militant groups, began two weeks ago and has turned the once-bustling camp into a deserted wasteland.
The Israeli military confirmed the demolition of 23 structures and vowed to continue operations “to thwart terror wherever necessary.” Residents were forced to evacuate after drones broadcast warnings. Many fled with only the clothes on their backs, leaving belongings behind as bulldozers and armored vehicles flattened roads and buildings.
Khalil Huwail, a father of four, described being ordered to leave. “We left in the clothes we were wearing. We couldn’t carry anything; that was forbidden,” he said. “The camp is completely empty.”
The destruction has left clouds of smoke and charred remains where homes once stood. UNRWA, the United Nations’ Palestinian relief agency, expressed grave concern, stating the demolitions risk destabilizing the fragile ceasefire recently established in Gaza with Hamas.
Jenin, home to descendants of Palestinians displaced during the 1948 war surrounding Israel’s creation, now stands devastated. UNRWA described the camp as a “ghost town” and warned of the risk of further escalation.
The situation has drawn international concern as Palestinian families face a mounting humanitarian crisis amid continued violence and the region’s growing instability.