UN confirms largest Palestinian displacement in West Bank amid Israeli military operations

The United Nations has confirmed the largest displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank since 1967, driven by Israeli military actions that have been ongoing for the past six weeks.

This devastating development was highlighted in a statement from Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Lazzarini detailed that Israeli security forces' operations in the northern parts of the West Bank have severely impacted the Palestinian population, with several refugee camps virtually emptied. As a result, approximately 40,000 Palestinian refugees have been displaced, marking the most significant displacement event in the region in over five decades.

"The Israeli security forces' operation in the West Bank, which began six weeks ago, has severely affected the Palestinian population, especially in the north of the region," Lazzarini stated. "Several refugee camps have been virtually emptied, displacing some 40,000 Palestinian refugees. This is the largest displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank since 1967."

The situation has also been exacerbated by the growing activity of Palestinian armed groups in the area. In response to the escalating crisis, UNRWA continues to provide crucial humanitarian aid, including medical services, food, and essential relief items to those affected by the displacement.

On January 21, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of a major military operation in the Jenin area, named "Iron Wall." The operation's stated goals are to "eliminate terrorism" in the northern West Bank, where radical Palestinian groups are active, and to "strengthen security" in the region.

As tensions rise and the humanitarian situation deepens, the international community is closely monitoring developments in the West Bank. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations remain committed to offering support to those who have been displaced by the violence, while also advocating for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

By Vafa Guliyeva