DUBAI (AFP)-The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged $15 million to support the reconstruction of the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, which was heavily impacted by a recent Israeli military operation. The offensive, carried out over two days, resulted in the destruction of the camp’s infrastructure, including its roads and alleyways. The operation aimed to crack down on Palestinian militants following a series of attacks on Israelis and led to the displacement of thousands of people. The fighting resulted in the deaths of twelve Palestinians and one Israeli soldier.
According to the UAE’s state-run WAM news agency, the pledged funds will be provided to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The funding will be used to rebuild damaged homes and businesses in the camp and to support the agency’s services. UNRWA has faced challenges in securing adequate funding for its operations, which assist millions of Palestinians throughout the Middle East.
During Israel’s recent incursion, bulldozers were used to clear paths for the deployed troops, causing significant damage to the densely populated camp. Roads were destroyed, with debris and damaged vehicles scattered throughout the area. UNRWA reported damage to its own facilities, including a health center and the road leading to its school.
Last month, UNRWA held a donor conference to secure funding, but fell short of its target of $300 million. Countries pledged only $107 million, leaving the agency facing financial difficulties. Israel’s recent offensive in the Jenin camp, historically known as a stronghold of Palestinian militants, evoked memories of a major incursion in 2002 known as the battle of Jenin during the second intifada. Both operations aimed to dismantle militant groups and prevent attacks on Israelis.
The escalation of violence in the West Bank has posed a challenge for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right government. Calls for tougher action against Palestinian militants by ultranationalist members of the government have resulted in a further deterioration of the situation. Ongoing settlement construction and violence by extremist settlers have also contributed to the unrest. Palestinians argue that such actions are a consequence of the prolonged occupation and the absence of a political resolution with Israel.
Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. Palestinians seek these territories for their envisioned independent state.
