Since Hamas launched its attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, violence has escalated significantly in the region. In just a few weeks, over 900 Palestinians have lost their lives due to actions by Israeli forces in the West Bank. During the same time, more than 20 Israelis have also been killed.
Reports indicate a troubling rise in attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. The United Nations has documented 487 incidents involving settlers that resulted in injuries or damage to property in the first four months of this year alone. This includes 122 incidents in April, with at least 181 Palestinians reportedly hurt in these attacks. Human rights groups and witnesses claim that Israeli military and police often stand by during these assaults, failing to intervene.
The situation has been exacerbated by the current Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Since taking office in late 2022, this right-wing coalition has pushed for the establishment of 49 new settlements and has initiated the legalization of seven unauthorized settler outposts. Just last month, Israeli officials announced the approval of 22 new settlements across the West Bank, framing this expansion as essential for Israel’s security and a measure to prevent a Palestinian state.
In a recent incident, a 15-year-old Palestinian boy was shot and killed by Israeli forces in al-Yamoun, near Jenin. The Israeli military claimed that "terrorists" had thrown explosives at their troops during an operation, leading to their response.
Earlier this year, Israeli forces conducted a large-scale operation against Palestinian armed groups in Jenin and surrounding areas. Netanyahu described this operation as a necessary step to combat terrorism. However, the UN’s human rights chief reported that this military action resulted in the destruction of entire refugee camps and medical facilities, displacing over 40,000 Palestinians who were ordered not to return to their homes for a year.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with increasing casualties and ongoing tensions between communities.