The situation in the Jenin refugee camp, located in the occupied West Bank, has been described by the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees as heading towards a “catastrophic direction.” This alarming assessment follows a significant military offensive initiated by the Israeli military aimed at dismantling Palestinian armed groups in the region, particularly around Jenin, known historically as a hotspot for militancy.
Beginning on January 21, the Israeli military operation has reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 50 militants according to army statements, while the Palestinian health ministry has recorded a total of 70 fatalities in the West Bank since the start of the year. The military actions have also included the demolition of buildings within the adjacent refugee camp, raising serious concerns about the humanitarian impact on the residents.
UNRWA spokeswoman Juliette Touma expressed grave concern over the deteriorating conditions within the camp, noting the extensive destruction caused by Israeli detonations. “Large parts of the camp were completely destroyed in a series of detonations by the Israeli forces,” she reported from Amman, estimating that around 100 homes have either been destroyed or severely damaged. Furthermore, she stated that the daily lives of the camp’s residents have become increasingly untenable.
Touma highlighted a particularly troubling incident on Sunday, when detonations occurred just as children were expected to return to school. As a result of the ongoing violence and destruction, 13 schools within the camp and surrounding areas remain closed, impacting about 5,000 children who have been deprived of their education.
UNRWA’s operations in the Jenin camp have been severely disrupted for several months, with services coming to a complete halt in early December. The agency has not received any prior notifications regarding the military actions, as communication between its staff and Israeli authorities has been cut off. Recent legislation targeting UNRWA has further complicated the situation, following Israeli accusations that the agency provided support to Hamas militants. This legislation, which took effect recently, prevents UNRWA from operating within Israeli territory and prohibits contact with Israeli officials, posing significant challenges to the agency’s ability to deliver essential services.
The unfolding crisis in Jenin camp is a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by Palestinian refugees amidst escalating violence and geopolitical tensions in the region.
