Israeli Supreme Court Orders State to Set Timeline for Return of Displaced to West Bank Camps

The Israeli Supreme Court has ordered the state to establish a timeline for completing the necessary steps to allow residents to return to their homes in the Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams refugee camps. The court also requested that the state investigate ways to expedite this return and respond to claims of inadequate humanitarian aid for the displaced.

The ruling came in response to a petition filed in September 2025 by the Association for Civil Rights on behalf of residents displaced during the "Iron Sword" operation in January 2025. The petition demanded permission for the displaced to return and for their humanitarian needs to be met until then. Residents have been barred from returning to their homes since the operation began.

In a submission to the court in August, the state argued that security conditions still prevent their return and that continued military presence in the camps is necessary. It stated that efforts are underway to establish military sites outside the camps for future troop withdrawal, but acknowledged that work on planned sites in Tulkarm and Nur Shams is in its early stages. The state also reported no significant progress in coordinating with the Palestinian Authority to transfer responsibility for the camps and noted a lack of substantial infrastructure repairs in the four months prior to its submission.

Conversely, the state claimed that the humanitarian needs of the displaced are being adequately met, with approximately 90% finding alternative housing. However, the petitioners presented a different picture, citing data from international and humanitarian organizations, along with photographic evidence and resident testimonies, indicating severe economic hardship and unmet basic needs among the displaced. The petitioners emphasized the state's obligation to ensure decent living conditions, including housing, healthcare, water, and food, and to minimize the harm caused by their displacement.

The court also ordered the state to respond to a request by 53 additional displaced families from the three camps to join the petition. These families are represented by attorney Firas Assali. The state is required to submit its supplementary response by November 23, 2026.

Attorney Hila Sharon of the Association for Civil Rights stated, "For nearly two years, camp residents have been prevented from returning home, and the state has yet to set a date. Displacement cannot continue indefinitely while their fundamental rights are severely violated. Security considerations do not absolve the state of its duty to protect their rights and mitigate harm. The state must present a clear plan and act urgently to enable their return and rebuilding."