Homes Demolished, Hope Remains: Tulkarem Residents Defy Israeli Settlement Expansion

Tulkarem Demolitions: Palestinians Evicted as Israel Expands Settlements May 29, 2025, marked a somber day in Tulkarem, occupied West Bank. Israeli forces began demolishing Palestinian homes, forcing residents to hurriedly gather their belongings. This action comes as Israel announced the approval of 22 new settlements, the largest expansion in decades. The UN has stated that approximately 41,000 Palestinians have been displaced since January. "My house is only a couple of meters away," said Ziad Hijazi, a Tulkarem resident, "But if I try to enter, I'll have to sneak in like a thief." This highlights the fear and uncertainty faced by those whose homes are threatened. Another resident, Abeer Desouki, stated, "Our demand and only goal is to return to our homes. We need nothing more from them." These statements underscore the desperation and resilience of the Palestinian community. The video footage shows the emotional distress and the scale of the displacement. Rights groups warn that this settlement expansion will further hinder the establishment of a Palestinian state. The situation remains tense, and the international community is watching closely as the humanitarian crisis unfolds.