Key Developments Reported Across Gaza, Jerusalem, and the West Bank
A range of political, humanitarian, and economic developments were reported this week across Gaza, occupied Jerusalem, and the West Bank, reflecting the continued escalation of displacement, military measures, and worsening civilian conditions.
Gaza War Cost Reported at $110 Billion
According to Haaretz, citing the Israel Bank, the financial cost of the Gaza war has reached $110 billion, underscoring the scale of economic strain alongside the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe.
Evictions and Displacement in Jerusalem
Reports from the Occupied Jerusalem Bulletin on Friday (2 January 2026) indicate what observers describe as the largest coordinated displacement wave in Jerusalem since 1967. More than 130 Palestinians in Silwan, south of Al-Aqsa Mosque, are facing imminent eviction following a ruling by Israel’s Supreme Court.
In Batn al-Hawa, occupation authorities reportedly issued evacuation decisions affecting Palestinian-owned buildings, while the Jerusalem Municipality has begun distributing notices in Al-Bustan aimed at seizing land for redevelopment into public parks and parking areas serving settlers.
Continued Demolitions Across Historic Palestine
Channel 12 reported that in 2025, Israeli authorities demolished approximately 5,000 homes in towns inside Palestine, marking a 300 percent increase compared to previous years. Observers warn that demolition policies and settlement expansion continue to reshape Palestinian communities through forced displacement.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
International and UN reports state that one million people in Gaza are in urgent need of shelter assistance. The situation has been exacerbated by extreme winter weather, with heavy rain and freezing winds impacting displaced families living in tents.
One incident highlighted the severity of these conditions: a fire broke out inside a tent after a mother attempted to light a candle for warmth, resulting in the death of a woman and child and injuring another child.
Prisoners, Detentions, and Escalating Rhetoric
The number of Palestinian prisoners sentenced to life in Israeli prisons has reportedly risen to 116, while the occupation continues to detain the bodies of 51 Jerusalemite Palestinians since 1967.
Meanwhile, Israeli political rhetoric has drawn attention, including statements by officials asserting claims over Gaza and the West Bank, and reports of extremist settler simulations depicting the demolition of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The UN has also called on Israel to abandon draft legislation concerning the execution of Palestinian prisoners.
Regional and International Reactions
International concern continues to grow. Eight Arab and Islamic countries issued warnings over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly under worsening weather conditions and restricted aid access.
Public figures, including actress and activist Angelina Jolie, have also spoken out, describing Gaza’s suffering as beyond description while visiting humanitarian operations near Rafah.
Ongoing Violence and Settler Attacks
Reports this week included renewed settler militia attacks in multiple West Bank communities, with injuries reported near Bethlehem and Tubas, and continued incursions in areas surrounding Ramallah and Salfit.
Residents in Nour Shams camp near Tulkarm reported large-scale demolitions, with 25 buildings destroyed over several days, displacing hundreds.
Related articles: