The United Nations Rights Office raises its alarm over escalating violence in the occupied West Bank
OHCHR Spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan Added That Israeli military activity in and around the Jenin refugee camp has involved “disproportionate use of force,” including airstrikes and shootings reported to have targeted residents, armed.
“Deadly Israeli activities in recent days raises serious concerns about the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, including methods and means developed to fight wars, in violation of international human rights lawStandards and standards applicable to law enforcement activities.
Ohchr has verified that at least 12 Palestinians – most reported unarmed – have been killed since Tuesday and an additional 40 injured. The injured include a doctor and two nurses, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent.
Duty to protect civilians
Mr. Al-Kheetan reiterated that Israel, as the occupying power, has a responsibility under international law to protect civilians living under occupation.
He stressed the need for investigations into alleged illegal killings, warning that a lack of accountability risks perpetuating the violence.
“All homicides in a law enforcement context must be thoroughly and independently investigated and Those responsible for illegal killings must be held to accounthe said.
By failing over the years to hold responsible members of the security forces accountable for unlawful killings, Israel has not only violated its obligations under international law, but also risks encouraging a recurrence of those killings, he warned.
Impact on the community
The ongoing violence has displaced more than 3,000 families in Jenin and essential services such as water and electricity have been severely disrupted for weeks.
The Israeli army has closed major entrances to Palestinian cities, including Hebron, restricting movement and paralyzing daily life. Thirteen new iron gates were installed at the entrances of other towns across the West Bank.
Summary Security Council On Thursday, UN emergency relief coordinator Tom Fletcher also warned of record high levels of casualties, displacement and access, from October 2023.
Violent settlement and settlement expansion
In addition to military operations, there has been an increase in settler attacks on Palestinian villages and the stoning of vehicles, in which several Palestinians have been injured.
Houses and vehicles were burned, according to an OHCHR spokesperson.
He also voiced concern about repeated comments by some Israeli officials about plans to expand the settlement further – a violation of international law.
We call for an immediate end to the violence in the West Bank. We also call on all parties, including influential third countries, to do everything in their power to ensure peace is achieved in the region, Al-Kheetan stated.
He reiterated Israel’s call for High Commissioner Volker Türk to stop settlement expansion and evacuate all settlements as required by international law.
ScopeWe call on all parties, including influential third countries, to do everything in their power to ensure peace is achieved in the region.Mr. Al-Kheetan called.
