Fierce Battle in Jenin Refugee Camp as Operation Defensive Shield Continues
Israeli forces encounter heavy resistance in Jenin, sparking international controversy over casualties and tactics
Battle for Jenin
Israeli forces entered the Jenin refugee camp as part of Operation Defensive Shield, encountering the fiercest Palestinian resistance since the operation began. The densely populated camp, known as a stronghold for Palestinian militants, became the scene of intense urban warfare.
Military Operations
Israeli tactics:
- House-to-house searches for militants and weapons
- Bulldozers used to widen streets for armored vehicles
- Controlled demolitions of booby-trapped buildings
- Efforts to minimize civilian casualties slow advance
Palestinian resistance:
- Improvised explosive devices throughout camp
- Sniper positions in residential buildings
- Ambushes in narrow alleyways
- Civilian population used as cover
Casualties and Controversy
Disputed Death Toll
Initial reports varied wildly:
- Palestinian claims: “Hundreds of civilians massacred”
- Israeli military: “Dozens of gunmen killed, minimal civilian casualties”
- UN estimates: Awaiting access for independent verification
“We are receiving alarming reports that require immediate international investigation,” - UN Special Coordinator Terje Roed-Larsen
Humanitarian Crisis
- Water and electricity cut to refugee camp
- Medical teams denied access for days
- Food supplies running critically low
- Thousands of residents trapped in homes
International Response
Growing Diplomatic Pressure
United Nations:
- Security Council emergency session called
- Demands for immediate humanitarian access
- Fact-finding mission proposed
European Union:
- Foreign ministers condemn “disproportionate use of force”
- Threaten review of trade agreements
- Call for international observers
United States:
- Urges Israel to expedite operations
- Emphasizes need to avoid civilian casualties
- Maintains support for anti-terror operations
The Wider Operation
Operation Defensive Shield Status
Since launch on March 29:
- Six West Bank cities reoccupied
- Thousands of Palestinians detained
- Alleged terror infrastructure destroyed
- Yasser Arafat remains besieged in Ramallah
Strategic Objectives
Israeli military sources claim significant achievements:
- Weapons manufacturing facilities destroyed
- Suicide bombing networks disrupted
- Militant leadership arrested or killed
- Intelligence documents captured
Propaganda War
Both sides mobilize international media:
- Palestinians: Focus on civilian suffering and destruction
- Israelis: Emphasize security threats and militant infrastructure
- International media: Restricted access hampers independent reporting
Long-term Implications
The battle for Jenin would become one of the most controversial episodes of the Second Intifada, with disputes over what occurred continuing for years and shaping international perceptions of the conflict.