DayofPal—The United Nations has warned of continued high levels of Palestinian displacement in the occupied West Bank, as violence by Israeli settlers and demolition operations escalate.
Since the start of 2026, more than 900 Palestinians have been forced from their homes, the UN reported, highlighting a concerning surge in forced displacement over recent weeks.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric noted that most displacements result from settler attacks and restricted access, particularly through demolition operations.
Between January 20 and February 3, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) documented over 50 attacks by settlers that caused injuries, property damage, or both.
The UN is conducting assessments to guide humanitarian responses and stressed that all parties must adhere to international humanitarian law, especially regarding civilian protection and infrastructure.
The warnings come as Gaza faces a continuing medical crisis, with over 18,500 patients requiring specialized treatment unavailable locally. The UN praised efforts by the World Health Organization and partners in evacuating eight patients and 17 companions via the Rafah crossing into Egypt.
UN officials called for reopening patient referral pathways to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, to relieve Gaza’s overstretched healthcare system.
Since Israel seized the Palestinian side of the Rafah border in May 2025, strict restrictions on movement and aid have worsened the humanitarian situation.
Even with the crossing partially reopened, returning Palestinians have reported mistreatment and significant obstacles under complex Israeli procedures.
The UN has described the permanent displacement of Palestinians in the occupied territories as a potential war crime, noting that Israel’s claim of sovereignty over the West Bank constitutes a breach of international law.
International media have highlighted ongoing Israeli plans to forcibly displace Palestinians from the West Bank and target schools and communities in the Jordan Valley to consolidate control.
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