RAMALLAH, (PIC)
Roland Friedrich, Director of UNRWA Affairs in the West Bank, warned Thursday that refugee camps in the northern West Bank are facing relentless destruction at the hands of Israeli occupation forces (IOF), calling the situation a clear case of forced displacement and collective punishment.
In a press statement, Friedrich said that the West Bank has seen no respite from violence, with refugee camps in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Nur Shams suffering widespread demolition.
Over the past 12 days, dozens of homes and buildings have been destroyed by the IOF, stripping families of shelter and basic dignity.
“Camps that were once full of life are being reduced to rubble before our eyes,” Friedrich said. “This is not just destruction—it is systematic, forced displacement, a blatant violation of international law, and a form of collective punishment,” he added.
He pointed out that families have been denied the chance to recover any belongings before bulldozers level their homes.
Friedrich called for immediate access for residents to return to their homes and rebuild without obstruction, noting that despite the devastation, UNRWA schools are preparing to welcome students for the upcoming school year, and health centers remain operational and ready to treat patients.
He emphasized the urgent need for international support to help displaced Palestinian refugees recover and restore some sense of normalcy amid the destruction.
