Israeli authorities are reportedly preparing for what could become the largest demolition campaign in the occupied West Bank since 1967, with plans to dismantle around 25% of all Palestinian homes in Area C during 2025. According to Walid Assaf, rapporteur of the Popular Resistance Committee in the Palestinian National Council, the campaign would affect over 100,000 residential and agricultural structures, potentially displacing tens of thousands of Palestinians. Israeli officials justify the move by citing lack of building permits—permits that are notoriously difficult for Palestinians to obtain.

Area C, which represents more than 60% of the West Bank and remains under full Israeli control, has long been the focus of disputes over planning and development. International and UN reports have repeatedly noted that fewer than 2% of Palestinian permit applications are approved, effectively curtailing the ability of residents to build legally. Palestinian officials argue that the enforcement of demolition orders under these conditions constitutes systemic discrimination and a de facto policy of displacement.

The scale of the current plans has raised concerns of a significant escalation. Over the past two years, demolitions have increased by 130%, with April alone seeing the destruction of 152 structures and dozens more demolition orders issued, including in East Jerusalem. These developments coincide with broader military operations that have devastated refugee camps across the West Bank, displacing tens of thousands and severely damaging civilian infrastructure.

Statements from high-ranking Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have added to concerns. Smotrich recently declared that 2025 would mark the first year since 1967 where more Palestinian buildings are demolished than constructed—a signal interpreted by some observers as political backing for mass expulsions. Palestinian officials warn that the policy amounts to a “strategic removal” of the Palestinian population, deepening fears of a forced transfer and a further erosion of any future two-state prospects.