**Israeli Army’s Operation Iron Wall Forcing Thousands to Flee**
The Israeli army has forced thousands of Palestinians to flee their homes in four camps in the northern West Bank. The operation, called “Operation Iron Wall”, aims to stop Palestinian militant groups from launching attacks on Israeli soldiers.
**Forced Evacuation**
Alaa Ofi and his wife were among those who had to leave Tulkarm camp suddenly. They took nothing with them, including important documents and clothes. Mr. Ofi said he couldn’t bring his pregnant wife to the hospital because their insurance papers and ID were left behind.
**Widespread Destruction**
The Israeli army has destroyed homes and roads in the camps, making it difficult for residents to return home. Aid agencies say this is the largest forced relocation of Palestinians since 1967. The camps, established in the early 1950s, have been almost entirely evacuated.
**Killings and Injuries**
At least 51 Palestinians, including seven children, have been killed by Israeli forces during the operation. Three soldiers were also killed by Palestinian gunmen. The UN says that Israeli forces have used excessive force against civilians.
**Restrictions on Civilians**
The Israeli army claims it is battling Palestinian militant groups based in the camps. However, residents say they were forced to leave under fire or received instructions from drones to evacuate. A video shows a drone broadcasting a message telling people to get out of their houses before the army arrives.
**Palestinian Governor Criticizes Operation**
Dr. Abdullah Kmeil, the Palestinian governor of Tulkarm, says that “Operation Iron Wall” is a declaration of war against Palestinians. He claims that the Israeli army’s goal is to create a hostile environment for residents, forcing them to leave and be absorbed into the Palestinian population.
**Residents Face New Challenges**
Palestinians are struggling with new problems, big and small. In one village, we saw a driver trying to reverse out of a muddy hole left by Israeli bulldozers. A miniature replica of Jerusalem’s iconic Dome of the Rock was smashed in a nearby roundabout.
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