Operation Defensive Shield
In April 2002 the Israeli military (IOF) re-invaded and occupied a number of Palestinian cities and villages. In Nablus 400 tanks and associated soldiers with air support carried out devastating attacks against the civilian population, imposing 24hr curfews which lasted for days, denying medical treatment to injured people, and destroying the infrastructure of the city. This attack was under the pretext of the global “War against Terrorism” and called Operation “Defensive Shield”.
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Mass Grave
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More than 80 people died in 3 weeks as a direct result of “Operation Defensive Shield”. Due to the 24hr curfew in place burials were impossible for many days, some bodies lay in the streets, others in makeshift graves in gardens, the morgue at the hospital filled up and a refrigerator truck had to be used. This mass grave was dug in one afternoon towards the end of the three weeks and many of the martyrs buried the following afternoon when the curfew was lifted for a few hours, people making the choice between getting much needed food and medical supplies and honouring their dead family and friends
Martyr
Martyr poster for those who died in Nablus April 2002 during “Operation Defensive Shield”
Martyr, or Shaheed, is the term used in reverence to anyone who has died as a result of the Israeli occupation of Palestine, this includes suicide bombers, civilians, those who die as a result of being unable to access medical treatment because of Israeli military actions, and internationals killed whilst working in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Burning Rubbish
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Due to the 24hr curfew no refuse collection was possible, introducing a risk of disease and forcing people to burn their rubbish. (Nablus April 2002)
Al Shubi Home
Al Shubi home, demolished by IOF on top of the family killing seven, including three children 10 and under and their 7month pregnant mother. (Nablus Old City)
