The United Nations has warned of mass displacement in the West Bank, reaching levels not seen since Israel’s occupation of the area nearly six decades ago.
The worsening situation reflects rising tensions and humanitarian concerns in the region.
Location of West Bank
- Located to the west of the Jordan River.
- Borders: Israel (west), Jordan (east), and Jerusalem (southwest).
- Major cities: Ramallah (administrative capital of Palestinian Authority), Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, and Bethlehem.
Historical Background
- 1948 Arab-Israeli War: After the war, Jordan occupied the West Bank and later annexed it (1949–1967).
- 1967 Six-Day War: Israel captured the West Bank from Jordan, and it has remained under Israeli control since then.
- Ongoing dispute over legal status and control between Israel and Palestine.
Oslo Accords (1993–1995)
- The Oslo Peace Agreements aimed at resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Created the Palestinian Authority (PA) to govern parts of the West Bank.
- Divided the territory into three administrative zones:
- Area A: Full control by Palestinians (civil + security).
- Area B: Palestinian civil control, joint Israeli-Palestinian security.
- Area C: Entirely under Israeli control (~60% of the territory).
Current Issue
- Increasing violence, settlements, and displacements are threatening peace and stability.
- The UN highlights the worsening humanitarian conditions and risk of further escalation.
