While global attention is captured by the most recent escalation in the conflict between Israel, USA and Iran, the West Bank is facing intensified military operations, expanding incursions, and rising settler violence, leading to displacement, home demolitions, and restricted access to services. Palestinian communities in the West Bank have been living under the coercive environment of the Israeli occupation for years – recently experiencing a further deepening of these coercive measures (like the ‘de facto’ annexation measures announced in February 2026) and a strong uptick in violence by military and settlers.

At the same time, MSF mental health teams report great psychological and protection needs among the Palestinian communities in the West Bank repeatedly exposed to violence, displacement, and loss of livelihoods. Demand for care exceeds the available capacity, and restrictions on humanitarian presence risk compounding this cumulative psychological burden.

However, given the uncertain future of MSF’s work in the OPT and the fact that we had to reduce or suspend our activities is weakening the healthcare system further while trauma and psychological needs continue to rise.