West Bank Security Situation Remains Alarming, Warn UN Aid Agencies
Geneva/Jerusalem – 2025-02-26 (12:00 GMT) – A coalition of UN aid agencies today released a stark warning regarding the deteriorating security situation in the occupied West Bank, describing it as “alarming” and demanding urgent action to protect civilians. In a joint statement released on the eve of a scheduled Security Council briefing on the situation, the agencies highlighted a significant increase in violence, settlement expansion, and restrictions on movement, all contributing to a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The statement, jointly issued by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and the World Food Programme (WFP), points to several key drivers of the growing instability:
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Escalating Israeli military raids: The UN agencies reported a sharp increase in Israeli military operations across the West Bank, including frequent incursions into Palestinian cities and refugee camps. These raids, often conducted under the guise of counter-terrorism efforts, have resulted in civilian casualties, property damage, and widespread disruption of daily life. The agencies expressed particular concern about the use of live ammunition in densely populated areas.
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Surge in settler violence: The report details a concerning trend of increased attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities. These attacks, which often involve stone-throwing, vandalism, arson, and physical assaults, have left numerous Palestinians injured and displaced. The UN agencies criticized what they described as a lack of accountability for these acts, noting that perpetrators are often not held responsible by Israeli authorities. They also raised concerns about the growing number of armed civilian security teams operating in settlements, further exacerbating tensions.
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Expansion of settlements: The statement condemns the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. The agencies argue that the ongoing construction of new settlements and the expansion of existing ones are contributing to the fragmentation of Palestinian territory, limiting access to resources and essential services, and fueling resentment among the Palestinian population.
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Increased movement restrictions: The UN agencies highlighted the continued imposition of movement restrictions on Palestinians, including checkpoints, roadblocks, and the separation barrier. These restrictions, they argue, are hindering access to healthcare, education, employment, and other essential services, and are significantly impacting the Palestinian economy. The statement specifically cited the closure of roads and the increased deployment of checkpoints following recent attacks as further impeding humanitarian access.
Humanitarian Consequences:
The agencies painted a grim picture of the humanitarian consequences of the deteriorating security situation. They noted a significant increase in food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable communities in Area C of the West Bank, which is under full Israeli control. They also reported a growing number of Palestinians requiring mental health and psychosocial support, as a result of the ongoing violence and trauma.
“The cumulative impact of these factors is creating a climate of fear and despair among the Palestinian population,” the statement reads. “Many families are struggling to meet their basic needs, and the psychological toll on children is particularly worrying.”
Calls for Action:
In their joint statement, the UN agencies called on the international community to take urgent action to address the deteriorating security situation and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the West Bank. Specifically, they urged:
- Israel to uphold its obligations under international law, including protecting civilians, preventing settler violence, and halting settlement expansion.
- All parties to refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions and to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
- The international community to provide increased humanitarian assistance to address the growing needs of the Palestinian population.
- Accountability for all acts of violence, regardless of the perpetrator.
Future Implications:
The UN agencies warned that the continued deterioration of the security situation in the West Bank could have serious long-term implications for the stability of the region. They expressed concern that the escalating violence and growing humanitarian crisis could further fuel extremism and undermine the prospects for a two-state solution.
The statement concludes with a plea for renewed efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and to create a just and lasting peace that guarantees the rights and security of both Palestinians and Israelis. The international community is now waiting to see how the UN Security Council will respond to this urgent call for action. The briefing scheduled for tomorrow is expected to be a critical opportunity for member states to express their concerns and to explore concrete steps to de-escalate the situation and prevent further suffering.
West Bank security situation remains alarming, warn UN aid agencies
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