UN raises ‘ethnic cleansing’ concerns over Israel’s Hebron operation

GENEVA: The United Nations has expressed serious concerns over Israel's military operation in the West Bank city of Hebron, warning that it could lead to ethnic cleansing. Following a deadly attack by Palestinian gunmen, Israeli forces launched the operation, resulting in the displacement of 3,189 people from their homes. The municipality in Hebron reported that residents were forced to evacuate their residences, with homes and commercial properties demolished.

UN rights chief Volker Turk condemned the aggressive operation, stating that it has already led to the unlawful evictions and demolitions of properties, as well as the restriction of residents' freedom of movement. Turk emphasized that this constitutes a grave violation of international law and called for the immediate return of the displaced, along with compensation for unlawful evictions and demolitions.

The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, also expressed deep alarm, warning that the situation in Hebron could lead to ethnic cleansing and hinder the realization of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination.