UN Experts Accuse Israel of Accelerating ‘Ethnic Cleansing’ in West Bank Amid Rising Violence and Displacement

United Nations human rights experts have issued a strong condemnation of what they describe as an accelerating campaign of ethnic cleansing and de facto annexation by Israel in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, citing a surge in forced displacement, settler violence, and movement restrictions affecting Palestinian communities.

The warning comes amid broader regional tensions, with experts linking developments in the West Bank to escalating conflicts involving Iran and Lebanon.

Escalating Displacement and Isolation

According to the experts, Israeli authorities have intensified measures that are isolating entire Palestinian communities and restricting access to basic services.

• Since 28 February, most road gates across the West Bank have reportedly been closed by Israeli forces

• Movement restrictions are obstructing access to:

  • Workplaces

  • Schools

  • Healthcare facilities

  • Humanitarian aid

• Emergency services, including ambulances and fire brigades, are also being delayed or blocked

"Entrapped and out of reach, entire communities live in fear," the experts said.

Thousands of Palestinian families have reportedly been forced to flee their homes, particularly in the Jordan Valley, often after repeated displacement.

Surge in Settler Violence and Alleged Abuses

UN experts describe a sharp escalation in settler violence, with attacks occurring "day and night" across multiple communities.

Reported incidents include:

• 86 settler attacks across 60 communities between 3–16 February

• Armed raids, including a 3 March attack in Qaryut (Nablus District), where two Palestinians were killed

• Destruction of homes, vehicles, and agricultural resources

• Vandalism of olive groves and essential infrastructure

• Theft or killing of livestock

Experts also raised alarm over reports of sexual abuse of Palestinian men, women, and children by settlers.

Ambulances were reportedly unable to reach injured individuals for over an hour during some attacks due to movement restrictions.

Allegations of State Support and Impunity

The experts alleged that settler violence is being enabled by state policies and rhetoric, pointing to:

• Statements by Israeli officials, including claims that "Jews are above the law in the West Bank"

• Expansion of firearm licensing for settlers

• Reports of arms and vehicles being provided to settler groups

"This is an example of coordinated implementation… by occupation forces and settlers," the experts said, suggesting a convergence of state and non-state actions.

They also highlighted widespread impunity, with limited accountability for attacks resulting in deaths and injuries, including among children and elderly civilians.

Infrastructure and Livelihoods Under Attack

The destruction of infrastructure is having a severe impact on daily life and long-term sustainability in Palestinian communities.

Targeted assets reportedly include:

• Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems

• Agricultural land and harvests

• Livestock and grazing areas

Such damage is compounding displacement and undermining food security and economic survival.

Annexation Concerns and Legal Context

The experts warned that recent actions are part of a broader strategy of territorial annexation, including:

• Expansion of illegal settlements

• Registration of Palestinian land as Israeli property

• Further displacement of local populations

They referenced the International Court of Justice's 2024 advisory opinion and UN General Assembly Resolution ES-10/24, which call for an end to Israel's unlawful occupation.

International Inaction Under Scrutiny

The experts criticised the international community for failing to act decisively:

"States have failed to stop Israel's crimes, emboldening its impunity and giving it carte blanche to continue its atrocities."

They urged immediate international intervention to:

• Halt forced displacement

• Protect civilians

• Ensure accountability for violations

A Worsening Humanitarian and Security Crisis

The situation in the West Bank is rapidly deteriorating, with overlapping crises of violence, displacement, and restricted access to essential services.

Experts warn that without urgent action, the region risks further destabilisation and long-term humanitarian consequences.

Ongoing Monitoring

The UN experts confirmed they are continuing to monitor developments and engage with relevant authorities regarding the allegations and concerns raised.