Israeli Forces Demolish Homes in Nur Shams Camp

In the Nur Shams refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Palestinian residents watched on Wednesday as Israeli military bulldozers demolished several homes, continuing a nearly yearlong operation targeting northern refugee camps. The demolitions formed part of Operation Iron Wall, launched by Israeli troops in early 2025, which has led to the destruction or heavy damage of at least 850 structures in the camps of Nur Shams, Jenin, and Tulkarem, according to satellite imagery analysis by Human Rights Watch.

The operation has displaced tens of thousands of people, marking the largest such movement in the West Bank since Israel captured the territory in 1967. Many families have sought shelter with relatives, squeezed into rental apartments, or taken refuge in public buildings. Israeli officials stated that the military actions aim to dismantle armed groups operating in the area, with demolitions targeting militant infrastructure or clearing paths for troop movements. The military emphasized that it only razed structures where there was a clear operational need, after considering alternatives, and allowed residents to retrieve their belongings beforehand. Troops plan to...