Since the beginning of 2025, Israel has intensified its military operations in the West Bank, resulting in the demolition of at least 260 buildings and displacing approximately 42,000 Palestinians, according to UNRWA.

The demolition efforts have particularly affected the Jenin refugee camp, which is home to around 20,000 residents.

During these operations, Jumaa Zawayda, a 66-year-old resident of Jenin, initially refused to evacuate his home in hopes of protecting it from destruction.

After enduring three days of violence marked by gunfire and explosions, Jumaa ultimately fled when essential utilities were cut off and communication failed.

Three months later, Jumaa stands uncertain on a hill overlooking the camp, unsure if his home has been among the demolished buildings.

He was briefly allowed to return to his home to collect a few belongings, managing to retrieve only his ID and family dog before discovering that his house had been destroyed.

Local officials, including the mayor of Jenin, have reported that the infrastructure in the camp has become unlivable due to extensive demolitions and ongoing military blockades.

Aid agencies describe the current displacement as the largest in decades, noting unprecedented levels of destruction since Israel's occupation began in 1967.

Israel's Defense Minister has characterized the refugee camps as 'nests of terror' and has ordered the continuation of military operations aimed at preventing residents from returning.

Prior to the recent escalation, Israel was already engaged in military actions against armed groups in the West Bank, particularly targeting Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas.

Since January, Israeli military operations have resulted in the deaths of 60 fighters and 100 Palestinian casualties, with 280 arrests reported during the same period.

As of May 1, 2025, Israel announced plans to demolish an additional 106 buildings in Tulkarem and Nur Shams refugee camps, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.