Israel’s West Bank Attacks Fuel Its Annexation Plans
Introduction:
During her visit to the West Bank in 2022, Yara Asi witnessed the Israeli military’s siege on Nablus, a major economic hub in the region. She expected international intervention to prevent the closure of the city, but no action was taken. The military siege lasted over three weeks and resulted in the deaths of more than 23 Palestinians. This marked the deadliest year for the West Bank since 2006, and the attacks have only intensified since then.
Escalating Violence in the West Bank:
While the world’s attention is focused on Gaza, Israeli military attacks in the West Bank have claimed the lives of more than 594 Palestinians since October 7. Shockingly, 115 of these victims were children killed by live ammunition, and 1,411 children were injured. Extremist Israeli settlers were responsible for some of these deaths. Despite the increasing violence, there has been little international intervention or critique, leaving Palestinians feeling abandoned.
Israel’s Recent Military Campaign:
Israel recently expanded its military campaign in the West Bank with raids and airstrikes on Tulkarem, Jenin, and Tubas. This marked the largest attack in the occupied territory since 2002. In just three days, at least 20 Palestinians were killed in preemptive strikes. The Israeli military was seen destroying roads and civilian infrastructure, causing significant damage. The Foreign Minister of Israel, Israel Katz, called for the military to handle the threat in the same way they deal with terrorist activity in Gaza, raising concerns about the level of destruction that may occur in the West Bank.
The Fear of Displacement:
The fear among Palestinians is that these strikes could permanently push them out of the territory. Yara Asi, who was born in Nablus and immigrated to the U.S., wonders if there will be a place called Palestine for her children and grandchildren. The lack of international intervention and the U.S.’s support for Israel’s actions have only deepened these concerns.
Israel’s Motivation for Annexation:
According to Trita Parsi, co-founder of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Israel’s strikes in the West Bank reveal their long-term plan to eliminate Palestine and gain total control of the region. Parsi believes that Israel is taking advantage of the international community’s lack of accountability and support from the United States to further its annexation goals.
U.S. Support for Israel:
The U.S. has continued to support Israel by sending weapons, despite evidence of human rights violations. This support has damaged the U.S.’s standing within the international community and weakened its position in the U.N. Security Council. The lack of effort from the U.S. to end Israel’s illegal occupation raises doubts about its commitment to a two-state solution.
Netanyahu’s Agenda:
Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, sees the recent strikes in the West Bank as part of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s attempt to maintain power and appease his far-right coalition. Elgindy questions whether Netanyahu’s endgame is to prolong his stay in power by creating conflicts on multiple fronts.
Worsening Living Conditions:
Living conditions in the West Bank have been deteriorating due to the tightening grip of Israeli forces. Military raids and settler violence, often facilitated by Israeli forces, have become more frequent and restrictive. This has led to a sense of fear and vulnerability among Palestinians, even among those who have experienced previous conflicts.
Conclusion:
The escalating violence in the West Bank and Israel’s annexation plans are causing deep concern among Palestinians. The lack of international intervention and the U.S.’s continued support for Israel’s actions have only exacerbated the situation. Palestinians fear for their future and the possibility of being permanently displaced from their homeland. The international community must take action to address the human rights violations and work towards a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.
