Diksia.com - United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres earlier this month condemned the use of “excessive force” in an operation by Israeli forces in the occupied Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank.
“More than 100 civilians were injured, thousands of people were displaced from their homes, schools and hospitals were damaged and water and electricity networks were cut during the Israeli military operation,” Guterres said on Thursday (07/06/2023).
Guterres also said that Israeli forces prevented medical treatment for the injured.
In addition, Israel prevents humanitarian workers from reaching those in need.
“As an occupying power, Israel has a responsibility to ensure that its civilian population is protected from all acts of violence,” he said.
“Israel’s airstrikes and ground operations on the overcrowded refugee camps are the worst violence in the West Bank in years, with a significant impact on civilians,” Guterres said.
“I call again on Israel to honor its obligations under international law,” he said.
“The use of airstrikes is contrary to the conduct of law enforcement operations,” he said.
“I understand Israel’s legitimate concern for its security, but escalation is not the answer.”
1,000 Israeli troops stormed Jenin
At least 12 Palestinians were killed in two days of attacks on the refugee camp.
The operation involved around 1,000 Israeli soldiers and was accompanied by airstrikes and deliberate damage to civilian infrastructure such as roads, water and electricity.
“Israeli forces also attacked the hospital in Jenin, significantly undermining its operational capability,” said Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI).
“As a result, five civilians were injured, three of whom were in serious condition,” the organization said.
