United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has denounced the Israeli military’s excessive use of force during its recent operation in the Jenin refugee camp, located in the occupied West Bank. Guterres expressed concern over the injuries sustained by more than 100 civilians, the displacement of thousands of people, and the damage inflicted on schools, hospitals, and vital networks such as water and electricity.
Guterres further criticized Israeli forces for obstructing medical care for the injured and preventing humanitarian workers from reaching those in need. As the occupying power, Guterres reminded Israel of its responsibility to protect the civilian population against all forms of violence.
The Israeli military’s airstrikes and ground operations in the densely populated refugee camp have been described as the most severe violence in the West Bank in many years, significantly impacting civilians. While acknowledging Israel’s security concerns, Guterres emphasized that escalation is not the solution and called on Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law.
The two-day raid on the Jenin refugee camp resulted in the deaths of at least 12 Palestinians. Approximately 1,000 Israeli soldiers were involved, accompanied by air attacks and deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, including roads, water, and electricity supplies.
Hospitals in Jenin were also attacked, severely damaging their operational capacity. Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) reported that five civilians, including three in serious condition, were injured as a result. The attacks on hospitals were condemned as a severe violation of their protected status.
The condemnation from the UN Secretary-General followed a statement by three independent human rights experts who characterized the Israeli actions in Jenin as egregious violations of international law and potential war crimes. They called for Israel to be held accountable for its illegal occupation and the violent acts that perpetuate it.
When asked if the Israeli raid on Jenin constitutes a war crime, Guterres declined to answer directly.
