Escalating tensions in the West Bank: A ‘Gaza-style’ population clearance

In recent weeks, the West Bank has witnessed a significant escalation in Israeli military operations, leading to widespread displacement and raising serious humanitarian concerns. These developments, combined with the controversial political proposals regarding Gaza, underscore the urgent need for international attention and action.

Intensified military operations in the West Bank

Since January 2025, Israeli forces have launched extensive operations in the northern West Bank, mainly targeting refugee camps in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tubas. As of writing, these actions have resulted in the displacement of approximately 40,000 Palestinians – the largest such displacement since the Naksa in 1967.

The use of heavy military equipment, including bulldozers and tanks, has led to the demolition of homes and infrastructure, effectively rendering areas uninhabitable. Defence Minister Israel Katz has indicated that these cleared camps will remain inaccessible to residents for at least a year, preventing displaced individuals from returning to their homes. It is similar to the playbook Israel implemented in Gaza over the past year.

The humanitarian impact of this Israeli aggression can not be understated. Families have been uprooted, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters lacking basic necessities. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reports that over 5,000 children have been deprived of education due to the destruction of schools and ongoing security concerns. Access to healthcare has been severely restricted, and essential services such as water and electricity have been disrupted.

Gaza: Clearing the path for ‘Trump Gaza’

While the West Bank faces military incursions, Gaza remains embroiled in its own crisis. In a controversial move, President Donald Trump recently proposed transforming the Gaza Strip into a luxury resort destination, dubbed “Trump Gaza.” This vision of Gaza by Trump includes displacing the current Palestinian population to neighbouring countries and developing high-end infrastructure in a resort-style riviera. An AI-generated promotional video shared by President Trump depicts a transformed Gaza, featuring opulent hotels, casinos, and golden statues.

This proposal has been met with widespread condemnation. Critics argue that forcibly relocating Gaza’s residents constitutes a violation of international law and amounts to ethnic cleansing. The plan overlooks the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties Palestinians have to their land and fails to address the underlying causes of the conflict. Moreover, neighbouring countries have expressed reluctance to absorb large numbers of displaced persons, further complicating the feasibility of such a proposal.

A pattern of displacement and erasure

The recent military actions in the West Bank bear a troubling resemblance to the operations in Gaza, where extensive demolitions and long-term displacements have occurred. The strategy of clearing densely populated areas, coupled with political proposals that disregard the rights and identities of the Palestinian people, suggests a broader agenda of territorial reconfiguration at the expense of indigenous populations.

In a previous blog, we discussed the establishment of an Israeli “holiday village” in Gaza, constructed on land devastated by military assaults. This development exemplifies the erasure of Palestinian communities and the transformation of their heritage into commercial enterprises. Such actions not only violate international norms but also perpetuate cycles of resentment and conflict.

What can you do?

The current situation in both the West Bank and Gaza highlights the urgent need for a concerted international response. The displacement of tens of thousands, the destruction of homes and infrastructure, and proposals that undermine the rights of Palestinians demand immediate attention.

1. Advocate for policy change: Contact your local MP and urge them to condemn actions that lead to forced displacement and support policies promoting equitable peace in the region.
2. Support humanitarian efforts: Donate to humanitarian charities providing relief to displaced families, ensuring they receive essential services and support, including UNRWA or Interpal.
3. Raise awareness: Share this blog and other information about the situation to educate others and counteract misinformation.

The plight of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza is a critical human rights issue that transcends political affiliations. Collective action and solidarity are essential in advocating for justice and the protection of vulnerable communities.