Israeli Forces Injure Four Palestinians, Continue West Bank Home Demolitions

Israeli forces have intensified home demolitions in the West Bank, particularly in Hebron, where two homes were destroyed on Wednesday belonging to Palestinians accused of a deadly attack at a Tel Aviv light rail station in October 2024. This action follows the recent shooting that killed seven Israelis and injured many more, with Hamas claiming responsibility for the attack. The demolitions are part of a broader military campaign that has resulted in the deaths of at least 905 Palestinians since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza in October, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Critics decry these demolitions as collective punishment, arguing they exacerbate tensions and lead to further violence. Additionally, for the first time during Ramadan, Israeli forces have begun demolishing homes in East Jerusalem, breaking a long-standing practice of refraining from such actions during the holy month. Local NGOs report that this escalation is part of a troubling trend in home demolitions amidst plans to expand Israeli settlements in the region.