TULKAREM, June 19, 2025 (WAFA) - Israeli bulldozers continued today to demolish additional residential buildings in Nur Shams refugee camp, east of Tulkarem. The area has witnessed, over the past few weeks, military operations that have so far resulted in the demolition of more than 20 buildings.
Over the course of 14 days, Israeli bulldozers demolished more than 50 buildings in Tulkarm camp, creating large, wide roads through various neighborhoods.
These demolitions are part of a plan announced by the occupation authorities in May, targeting the destruction of 106 buildings across both Tulkarem and Nur Shams camps, including 58 buildings in Tulkarem camp, under the pretext of opening roads, an action aimed at altering the camp’s character and erasing its physical structure.
The targeted structures comprise more than 250 homes and dozens of commercial establishments.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces maintain a complete blockade on both camps and their surrounding areas. Infantry units and military vehicles are stationed throughout the alleyways, neighborhoods, and access points, preventing residents from accessing their homes to inspect or collect their belongings. Live fire has been used against anyone attempting to get close.
The Israeli occupation forces’ escalation against the city of Tulkarem and its refugee camp has persisted for the 145th consecutive day, and for the 132nd day in Nur Shams camp.
This ongoing offensive involves continued home demolitions, a tightened siege, and heightened military measures at the checkpoints around Tulkarem, frequently blocking passage and fully closing the gates.
To date, the offensive has resulted in the killing of 13 Palestinians, including a child and two women, one of whom was eight months pregnant. Dozens more have been injured or detained, with widespread destruction inflicted on homes, infrastructure, commercial properties and vehicles.
According to recent estimates, over 5,000 families—more than 25,000 people—have been forcibly displaced from the two camps. Approximately 400 homes have been completely destroyed, while another 2,573 have sustained partial damage. Both camps remain sealed off by earth mounds, effectively turning them into areas nearly devoid of life.
T.R.
