Over 3,000 Palestinians forcibly displaced in Hebron since October 23 amid Israeli offensive
UNRWA’s West Bank director warns of worsening humanitarian conditions in Hebron as Israeli operations since October 23 force thousands from their homes.
Key Takeaways
AIThe director of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the West Bank, Roland Friedrich, has voiced deep concern over the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the city of Hebron, southern West Bank, as a result of the ongoing Israeli offensive since October 23.
In a press statement, Friedrich said recent developments in Hebron evoke troubling memories of the mass displacement that occurred in the northern West Bank at the start of 2025, noting that more than 34,000 refugees from the Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams camps remain forcibly displaced more than a year later.
Friedrich stressed that any form of collective punishment is contrary to international law, emphasizing the need to allow all forcibly displaced people to return to their homes, respect their dignity and rights, and ensure their access to essential services.
He added that UNRWA, in coordination with its partners, the Hebron governorate, and the city municipality, has responded to the urgent needs of affected families by distributing emergency aid, including blankets, mattresses, and pillows.
Israeli forces have continued their offensive in Hebron since October 23, resulting in the forced displacement of more than 3,000 Palestinian residents from their homes, the demolition of houses and private property, and the imposition of strict military restrictions on Palestinians’ movement and access to basic services.