The recent conflict in Jenin refugee camp has left civilians, including women and children, in a state of fear and distress. After days of intense fighting, the first families have finally been allowed to leave the camp, which had been sealed off by an Israeli military operation.
Reports from inside the camp paint a harrowing picture of the conditions residents faced. Oruba Shalabi, a mother carrying her two-month-old daughter, described how their home was targeted by gunfire and grenades, forcing them to hide in the kitchen. They were eventually given two minutes to leave, subjected to ID checks, and made to stand in the sun before being allowed to walk out.
The fighting in Jenin has been fierce, with armed groups having a strong presence in the area. The Palestinian Red Crescent has reported at least two bodies inside the camp that they have been unable to retrieve, including that of an elderly man. There are also unconfirmed reports of Israeli army casualties, indicating the intensity of the conflict.
Israel has stated that the aim of its operation in the West Bank is to disarm Iran-backed militants. The operation began with incursions into several cities and refugee camps before focusing on Jenin. Israeli forces have already killed key figures associated with Hamas in the area and are continuing to search house-to-house for other wanted individuals.
The escalating violence in the region has raised concerns about the potential for further attacks and casualties. The ongoing conflict, fueled by tensions over the Gaza War and military incursions into the West Bank, is pushing the situation towards a more dangerous phase. Both sides are on high alert, with the risk of further escalation looming over the region.
