Tue Dec 23 17:16:54 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Forces Demolish Shops, Conduct Raids Near Jerusalem, Injuring Residents
Qalandiya/Kafr Aqab – Israeli forces conducted a large-scale incursion into the Qalandiya refugee camp and the nearby town of Kafr Aqab, north of occupied East Jerusalem, on Tuesday, demolishing commercial premises and reportedly injuring several Palestinians.
The raids, which began early in the morning, saw Israeli troops deploying in force, carrying out house searches and forcibly evicting residents. At least three Palestinians were treated for injuries by the Palestine Red Crescent Society, including a bullet wound and injuries caused by shrapnel and physical assault. Reports also indicated dozens suffered from tear gas inhalation and stun grenade exposure.
According to the Palestinian Wafa news agency, at least three people were injured by gunfire. Several Palestinians, including Anan Mohammed Taha and his father, Mohammed Taha, were also detained.
Residents reported that Israeli forces ordered families to evacuate their homes, with at least three houses in Kafr Aqab being converted into temporary military outposts. The youth club within the Qalandiya refugee camp was also allegedly transformed into a military base.
Al Jazeera Arabic reporters covering the operation were reportedly targeted by Israeli forces, who fired stun grenades and tear gas canisters in their direction. Stun grenades were also allegedly fired towards students returning home from school.
“They have raided Palestinian stores, Palestinian shops, and they’ve destroyed some of the plaques, some of the advertisement billboards that were here,” reported Al Jazeera’s Nida Ibrahim from Kafr Aqab, describing the action as an attempt to “cripple the Palestinian economy.”
In addition to demolitions, Israeli forces confiscated goods from commercial shops in Qalandiya, Kafr Aqab, and parts of northern Jerusalem, citing unpaid municipal taxes. Residents say they are subject to high municipal taxes despite receiving minimal services.
Similar confrontations were also reported in Beit Furik, east of Nablus, following an Israeli forces incursion.
The events underscore the ongoing tensions in the region, with Al Jazeera reporting an average of “60 raids per day” by Israeli forces across the West Bank.
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