Jenin mayor describes Israeli military operation as ‘earthquake’ with $135 million in damages

JENIN — The mayor of Jenin, Nidal al-Obaidi, likened the ongoing Israeli military operation in the northern occupied West Bank city to an “earthquake,” estimating the damages at approximately $135.2 million.

“The greatest loss is in the lives of the martyrs. On a material level, the destruction caused by Israeli forces is immense, including damage to infrastructure, water and communication lines, and electricity transformers,” al-Obaidi said.

The mayor described the scene in Jenin’s eastern neighborhood and refugee camp as catastrophic, with streets torn apart and homes demolished.

He accused the Israeli army of deliberately sabotaging the city, stating, “The operation has continued for five consecutive days, with new destruction and damage occurring each day.”

Al-Obaidi highlighted the dire conditions faced by residents, noting a severe shortage of essential supplies due to the ongoing siege, which has paralyzed public and economic life.

The current military offensive, the largest in the northern West Bank since 2002, has seen extensive damage and loss of life, with at least 26 Palestinians killed. The operation, involving armored forces and air support, continues in Jenin amid a broader escalation of violence in the region. — Agencies