Israeli military authorities have issued demolition orders for 25 residential buildings in the Nur Shams refugee camp near Tulkarem in the occupied West Bank, citing security concerns and “operational necessity.” The controversial decision has drawn sharp condemnation from Palestinian officials and international observers who warn it represents systematic forced displacement tactics.
The Palestinian Refugee Affairs Department condemned the move as “a blatant violation of international humanitarian law” in an official statement, asserting that the demolitions would displace dozens of families. The department characterized the action as part of a broader strategy to empty Palestinian camps and establish long-term control over the territories, ultimately aiming to annex the West Bank including East Jerusalem.
Roland Friedrich, Director of UNRWA Affairs in the West Bank, described the development as “devastating news” in a social media post, noting that hundreds face imminent displacement. Friedrich observed that this pattern of home destruction has intensified throughout 2023, with Israeli security forces permanently altering the topography of northern West Bank camps to consolidate control.
The demolition orders follow closely after the Israeli cabinet’s approval to legalize and establish 19 settler outposts across the occupied West Bank, including two previously evacuated under the 2005 disengagement plan. Israeli settlement watchdog Peace Now criticized the government’s actions as deliberately foreclosing possibilities for future peace and a two-state solution.
The Israeli military defended its decision, stating that northern West Bank areas “have become a significant center of terrorist activity” operating from civilian populations. Authorities indicated residents would receive opportunity to evacuate personal belongings before demolitions commence, potentially as early as December 18.
This development occurs amidst sustained Israeli military operations in northern West Bank refugee camps, including Nur Shams, Tulkarm and Jenin. While Israel maintains these operations target militant networks and prevent attacks, Palestinian officials and human rights organizations argue they constitute collective punishment and forced displacement of the more than 32,000 Palestine refugees in the region.