UN Condemns Israeli Offensive in West Bank, Reports 44 Civilian Deaths

The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) condemned Israel's ongoing military offensive in the West Bank, which has reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 44 Palestinians, including children and women, since January 21, 2025. The OHCHR characterized the killings as part of an unlawful use of force amid a lack of active hostilities, noting that many victims were unarmed and posed no threat. Additionally, there has been an unprecedented level of mass displacement, with displaced residents recounting threats and forced evacuations by Israeli forces. The office emphasized that such forcible transfers are prohibited under international law, calling for the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes and transparent investigations into the killings. UNICEF highlighted the alarming rise in child casualties, with a 200 percent increase in Palestinian child deaths in the past 16 months compared to the prior period. The situation has raised significant humanitarian concerns, as infrastructure damage exacerbates the plight of those affected.