In 2013 there were 17 Palestine refugee killed by Israeli Security Forces in the West Bank. There were no refugee fatalities in 2012. Furthermore, UNRWA recorded 486 refugees injured in camps in 2013, compared with 38 in 2012. While there were no refugees injured by live ammunition in 2012, UNRWA documented 51 injuries of refugees by live ammunition in 2013, all of which occurred in or around camps.
Unfortunately UNRWA has observed a continuation of these trends into 2014. To date there have been seven Palestine refugees killed by Israeli security forces in the West Bank, two of whom were children, with the most recent being on 15 May 2014 (Nakba Day). The numbers of refugees injured in camps has continued to increase with 275 refugees injured in camps in the first four months of 2014, almost a 20 per cent increase over the same period of 2013.
Similarly, this year #UNRWA has also observed a sharp increase in refugees injured by live ammunition with at least 43 refugees being injured to date, all but one occurring in or around camps, compared to ten over the same period of 2013.
These figures speak for themselves and tell their own shocking story. Without comment they make the case for investigation and action for which the UN and other parties have called. Our hearts go out to families who have lost loved ones, particularly children. Grief is always poignant, but to grieve in these sorts of circumstances is particularly painful. Children and their right to life deserve particular protection as provided for under international law.