The United Nations human rights office has warned that pending Israeli demolition orders in the occupied West Bank could lead to the permanent displacement of hundreds of Palestinians, potentially constituting a grave breach of international law.
The alert, issued in December 2025, focuses on orders affecting 25 structures in Nur Shams refugee camp near Tulkarm. Wider patterns show over 1,700 Palestinian-owned buildings demolished this year, the highest annual figure in recent records.
UN OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani described the risk, stating: “These demolitions could amount to forcible transfer, a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention.” She urged Israeli authorities to immediately halt such actions and respect obligations under humanitarian law.
Residents face loss of homes, schools, and livelihoods. One affected Palestinian said: “They want to push us out of our homes piece by piece.” Families receive short notice before heavy machinery arrives.
Israeli military officials defend the operations, with a spokesperson explaining: “Enforcement is against illegal construction.” Permits for Palestinian building in Area C, under full Israeli control, are seldom approved, leading to structures deemed unauthorised.
The demolitions occur amid heightened tensions and settlement expansion. Humanitarian agencies report increased displacement, exacerbating poverty and restricting movement.
Critics argue the policy systematically fragments Palestinian communities while facilitating settler growth. Rights groups document punitive demolitions of family homes linked to attackers as collective punishment.
The UN has repeatedly called for accountability and reversal of practices contributing to a coercive environment. International law prohibits forcible transfer of protected persons in occupied territory except for imperative security reasons or their benefit.
As orders loom, residents organise legal challenges, though success rates remain low. Aid organisations prepare emergency support for those likely to lose shelter.
Diplomatic efforts continue to press for compliance with international obligations and protection of civilian rights.
Written by Were Kelly
Sources: UN News, Reuters, Al Jazeera, Haaretz.
