Context:

An extensive Israeli military operation in the West Bank has displaced tens of thousands of Palestinians, primarily in the cities of Jenin and Tulkarm, leading to fears of potential annexation of the territory. The operation, ongoing since January, marks the longest Israeli military presence in the area in decades, with claims of targeting militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Israeli forces have demolished homes, expanded roads, and patrolled the area continuously, undermining the Palestinian Authority's control and raising concerns about a second 'nakba'. Many Palestinians believe that the Israeli government's actions are aimed at erasing symbols of Palestinian refugee identity, such as the Jenin camp, and possibly annexing the land. Despite Israeli denials of forced displacement, Palestinians report threats and violence, resulting in a destabilizing and uncertain future for those affected.

Dive Deeper:

• The Israeli military's ongoing operation in the West Bank since January has displaced approximately 40,000 Palestinians, primarily affecting the cities of Jenin and Tulkarm, which were once densely populated and are now mostly deserted.

• This operation is the most extensive crackdown on Palestinian militancy in a generation, targeting groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad, with over 100 militants reportedly killed and hundreds arrested.

• The extended military presence has significantly undermined the Palestinian Authority's control in the region, as Israel argues that the Authority has failed to suppress militancy effectively.

• Palestinians fear this campaign signals intentions of annexation, especially as some Israeli government ministers advocate for it, and because of actions like transforming refugee camps into normal neighborhoods.

• The military has demolished homes, expanded roads, and conducted continuous searches for weapons, claiming to dismantle militant infrastructure, although Palestinians report being threatened into leaving their homes.

• The operation evokes memories of the 1948 nakba, with residents fearing permanent displacement, as seen in the testimony of Saleema al-Saadi, an elderly resident who fears a repeat of her past experience of expulsion.

• The situation remains tense, with Israeli forces maintaining a presence and Palestinians displaced into temporary accommodations, facing a destabilizing and uncertain future.