A leading human rights organisation has levelled severe accusations against Israel, alleging that its military operations in the West Bank earlier this year may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Mass Displacement in the West Bank
In a damning new report, Human Rights Watch (HRW) claims that Israeli forces forcibly expelled approximately 32,000 Palestinians from three refugee camps in the occupied territory. The operations, which took place in January and February 2025, targeted the camps of Tulkarem, Nur Shams, and Jenin.
This mass expulsion represents the largest single displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank since the 1967 war, according to the group's findings. The report states that Israeli authorities provided no justification for the mass removals and failed to allow the displaced residents to return to their homes.
Destroyed Homes and Calls for Prosecution
HRW's investigation, which relied on witness interviews and analysis of satellite imagery, concluded that over 850 homes were either destroyed or severely damaged during the raids. The Israeli military had referred to the offensive as "Operation Iron Wall," stating it was a necessary measure to combat militant activity in the region.
However, the human rights group highlights that the authorities did not offer any shelter or humanitarian assistance to the thousands of people forced from their homes. In response to these findings, HRW is calling for an international investigation and the potential prosecution of top Israeli officials.
The organisation has named Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Defence Minister Israel Katz as individuals who should be investigated for their roles in authorising and overseeing the operations.
International Repercussions and Legal Ramifications
These serious allegations place renewed international focus on Israel's conduct in the occupied territories. The accusation of crimes against humanity suggests a systematic and widespread attack on a civilian population, which carries profound legal implications.
As the international community digests this report, pressure is likely to mount on Israel to provide a detailed account of its actions during the operations and to address the humanitarian crisis created by the mass displacement.
