Controversy Erupts Over Palestinian Evacuations in the West Bank

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the IDF has evacuated approximately 40,000 Palestinians from the northern West Bank since January 21, marking the most significant evacuation in decades. This admission comes after weeks of media reports, including from The New York Times and CNN, alleging similar actions, which were initially denied by the IDF.

However, military sources quickly disputed Katz's figures, claiming that the data was unreliable and likely derived from UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East). The IDF’s own estimates place the number of evacuees at between 13,000 and 14,000, primarily from areas like Jenin, Tulkarm, and other parts of northern Samaria.

Katz's statement sparked controversy within the military itself, with some IDF officials expressing surprise at his comments, as they were not informed of the announcement beforehand. While Katz portrayed the evacuations as a necessary security measure to combat terrorism in the West Bank, he also indicated that Israel would not allow Palestinians to return to their homes in certain areas. His statements followed an attempted terrorist attack in the Bat Yam area, which Katz cited as justification for the tough stance.

The growing concern among international observers is whether such large-scale evacuations and the prevention of returns could potentially qualify as a war crime, under scrutiny from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Katz has continued to defend his position, emphasizing Israel’s efforts to prevent terrorism, but his remarks remain at odds with the IDF’s official stance.

In related news, tensions are escalating between Israel and Hezbollah, with the IDF carrying out strikes against rocket launchers in southern Lebanon. Additionally, Israel is calling for the demilitarization of southern Syria in light of the increasing influence of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group.