IDF opens new roads in refugee camps amid ongoing operations

In Israel, the IDF launched Operation Iron Wall in January 2025, focusing on northern Samaria to counteract terrorism. The military's goals included enhancing mobility, dismantling terrorist infrastructure, and addressing imminent threats by conducting extensive operations in major refugee camps. Israeli forces stated that over the years, the structure of the camps created obstacles that hindered their operations, prompting a strategy that has resulted in the destruction of 260 buildings and the opening of 11 kilometers of accessible roads. Dozens of IDF soldiers faced casualties in previous anti-terror operations, often slowed down by narrow passages and hidden explosives. The new measures are designed to ensure safer and quicker access for IDF forces while minimizing the risks during engagements. Additionally, the initiative is positioned as a step towards transforming the refugee camps into livable neighborhoods, indicating a broader policy shift. As part of their strategy, the IDF has engaged in dialogue with the Palestinian Authority regarding the future of these camps, which are currently under Hamas control. The destruction of camps is coupled with an expectation that the PA will take responsibility for restoring essential services such as water and electricity. These discussions remain in the planning stages, with a focus on transitioning from military operations to humanitarian reconstruction. The backdrop to these events includes a series of violent attacks by Palestinians in 2022, which catalyzed the IDF's intensified anti-terror campaign, dubbed “Breaking the Wave.” Since the inception of Operation Iron Wall, Israeli authorities reported significant decreases in terrorist activity, ensuring relative stability in the region. While the operation has faced criticism, the military maintains that its approach seeks to balance operational effectiveness with civilian safety.