ISTANBUL

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) warned on Friday that as the war intensifies in the Gaza Strip, another “unnoticed” war is unfolding in the West Bank.

“Military operations, destruction, movement restrictions, and poverty generate fear, uncertainty, and anxiety among Palestine Refugee communities,” stated the agency’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini on X.

“As one war rages in #Gaza, in the #WestBank another goes unnoticed,” he added. “All over the West Bank, the story repeats: fear, uncertainty and anxiety engulf the communities.”

“More escalations would push a peaceful solution further away.”

Israel has continued its brutal offensive on the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7, 2023, despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in the enclave.

At least 35,800 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and over 80,200 others injured since last October following an attack by the Palestinian group Hamas.

More than seven months into the Israeli war, vast swathes of Gaza lay in ruins amid a crippling blockade of food, clean water, and medicine.

Israel stands accused of genocide at the ICJ, which has ordered it to ensure that its forces do not commit acts of genocide and take measures to guarantee that humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians in Gaza.

*Writing by Rania Abu Shamala