A wave of lethal incidents has struck Palestinian communities this week, with at least 11 people killed in the first days of 2026. Residents report a climate of fear as armed groups operate freely and local authorities fail to provide meaningful protection. Killings have become increasingly frequent, sometimes claiming multiple victims in a single event, leaving communities exposed to ongoing insecurity.

Observers note that the spread of weapons and the lack of accountability for perpetrators have enabled criminal networks to expand their influence over neighbourhoods. Activists stress that few cases are investigated or resolved, creating conditions where armed groups can act with impunity. Daily life is dominated by fear, and many describe a growing sense of social breakdown within communities.

Criminologists warn that 2026 may become one of the deadliest years in recent memory. Organised criminal groups continue to operate largely unchecked, intensifying clashes and asserting control over local areas. Experts emphasise that without a coordinated and effective response, residents face a persistent cycle of violence, instability, and long-term pressures that threaten the safety and cohesion of their communities.