TULKAREM, February 28, 2025 (WAFA) – Israeli occupation forces Friday night forcibly expelled Palestinian residents from their homes in the Nur Shams refugee camp, east of Tulkarem, as the camp remains under a tightened military siege for the 20th consecutive day.

Eyewitnesses told WAFA that Israeli forces escalated their campaign of forced displacement, particularly in the Jabal al-Nasr neighborhood, compelling dozens of residents to leave their homes immediately at gunpoint. Troops fired live ammunition extensively as residents exited the area, instilling fear and panic.

The occupation forces raided homes across several neighborhoods, ransacking their contents before converting some into military outposts, using them as sniper positions and observation points.

In the al-Manshiyya neighborhood, Israeli forces set fire to several homes, causing widespread destruction to infrastructure, roads and public and private property.

Since the beginning of the Israeli onslaught on the camp, large-scale displacement has been reported, particularly among women, children, the elderly and the sick. More than 5,500 residents have fled their homes in several neighborhoods in the camp, seeking refuge in shelters or with relatives in Tulkarem and its surrounding areas.

A few days ago, Israeli forces issued demolition notices against 11 homes in Nur Shams camp, under the pretext of constructing a new road extending from the camp’s central square toward the al-Manshiyya neighborhood.

This latest escalation is part of an ongoing military offensive against the city of Tulkarem and its two refugee camps, Tulkarem and Nur Shams, now in its 33rd consecutive day.

Heavily reinforced Israeli troops, supported by military vehicles, bulldozers and infantry units, continue to enforce a total blockade on the camps. Soldiers have also seized several residential buildings, turning them into military outposts, while establishing a significant presence along Nablus Street.

T.R.