Tensions Escalate as Israel Increases Operations in West Bank and East Jerusalem

Tensions continue to rise in the West Bank and East Jerusalem as Israeli forces escalate their operations. This includes the demolition of UNRWA buildings in East Jerusalem, settler violence, and counter-terrorism efforts in Hebron. Simultaneously, Israeli forces are increasing their presence in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah's military camps and weapons depots. These developments have led to a surge in violence and increased international scrutiny.

Background and Context

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have launched a 'wide-scale' counter-terrorism operation in Hebron, expected to last several days[^{timesofisrael3].} Meanwhile, in East Jerusalem, police have arrested dozens, seizing weapons and fake products[^{timesofisrael2].} There have also been charges laid against two Israelis for terror-related arson and shootings in Ramle[^{timesofisrael4].}

At the same time, the IDF has targeted Hezbollah launch sites, weapons depots, and military camps in Lebanon[^tass5], with the promise of an 'unprecedented' response if Israel is attacked[^tass6].

In a controversial move, Israel has also overseen the demolition of UNRWA buildings in East Jerusalem[^{lemonde7][aljazeera9][scmp10].} It's a significant escalation, as UNRWA is the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, and the demolition has been denounced as a grave violation of international law[^lemonde7].

Key Developments and Details

There has been a marked increase in settler violence, with a 27% rise in 2025 and a spike in severe attacks by over 50%[^{timesofisrael13].} Recently, settlers attacked a Bedouin camp in the West Bank, leading to the hospitalization of 2 Palestinians and 2 foreign activists¹.

Israeli forces have also demolished a Palestinian children's football pitch, claiming it was illegally constructed[^bbc8]. Furthermore, Israel has recognized the Homesh settlement, a move seen as an attempt to prevent a Palestinian state[^{aljazeera12].}

Implications and Reactions

The demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem has been led by Israel's National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir[^mee14]. The UNRWA condemned the move as an unprecedented attack[^mee14]. The agency's compound was raided early in the morning, and Israeli flags were raised over the main building[^mee14].

Meanwhile, Palestinian families face what Al Jazeera English describes as psychological torture with Israel holding around 9,300 prisoners and banning ICRC visits since October 2023[^{aljazeera15].}

Current Status

Despite international criticism, Israel continues its operations in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon. The rising violence and the implications of these actions have drawn international attention, yet the situation remains volatile and unpredictable.