In just under nine months, Israel has demolished more Palestinian homes and structures in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, over building permits than in the entire previous year. According to recent reports, by 30 September, Israeli authorities had demolished a staggering 1,288 structures over building permits, nearly five a day. This includes 138 structures, funded by international aid, that were destroyed without warning or prior notice. These numbers are alarming and paint a grim picture of the ongoing human rights violations being carried out by Israel against the Palestinian people.
The destruction of homes and structures in the occupied West Bank is not a new phenomenon, but the recent surge in demolitions is particularly concerning. It not only highlights the blatant disregard for international law, but also the complete disregard for the lives and livelihoods of innocent Palestinians. These demolitions have left families homeless, children without shelter, and communities in shambles.
One of the main reasons cited by Israeli authorities for these demolitions is the lack of building permits. However, obtaining a building permit in the occupied West Bank is a long and complicated process for Palestinians. The bureaucratic hurdles and exorbitant fees make it nearly impossible for them to obtain the necessary permits. In fact, according to a report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 98% of Palestinian permit applications in Area C, which is under full Israeli control, were rejected between 2010 and 2014.
This discriminatory policy of denying building permits to Palestinians while allowing Israeli settlements to expand and grow is a clear violation of international law. It also perpetuates the illegal occupation of Palestinian land and further entrenches the apartheid system in place.
The demolition of Palestinian homes and structures also has a devastating impact on the economy. Many of these structures were used for agricultural purposes, such as animal shelters and storage facilities for farmers. With their destruction, families lose their source of income and are forced to live in dire conditions.
Furthermore, the demolitions also have a significant impact on education. Many of the demolished structures were used as schools or kindergartens, leaving children without a safe and adequate learning environment. This not only deprives them of their right to education but also creates a sense of instability and fear among the young generation.
It is worth noting that these demolitions are not limited to the West Bank, but also extend to East Jerusalem, which is considered by the international community as occupied territory. This further highlights the illegal and unjust actions being carried out by Israel in its quest for land grab and expansion.
The international community and human rights organizations have repeatedly condemned these demolitions and called for their immediate cessation. However, their calls have fallen on deaf ears as Israel continues to act with impunity. It is time for the international community to take concrete actions to hold Israel accountable for its violations and to put an end to these demolitions.
While the situation may seem bleak, there is still hope. The resilience and perseverance of the Palestinian people in the face of such adversity is truly remarkable. Despite the destruction of their homes and livelihoods, they continue to stand strong and resist the occupation. The international community must stand in solidarity with them and support their rights to self-determination and freedom.
In conclusion, the recent surge in demolitions of Palestinian homes and structures in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem is a clear violation of human rights and international law. It not only affects the lives of innocent civilians but also perpetuates the illegal occupation of Palestinian land. It is time for Israel to be held accountable for its actions and for the international community to take concrete steps towards ending these demolitions and achieving a just and lasting peace in the region.
