A peaceful march through Beit Sahour ended with shocking scenes of army brutality, as locals voiced opposition to the construction of a military base in Family Park. We spoke with Nidal Abu Zulof, head of the Joint Advocacy Initiative (JAI), about the need to oppose this illegal land-grab.
Why were you protesting yesterday?
To highlight Israel’s building plans and to convey a message that this is a serious issue, that will seriously impact on the people of Beit Sahour. We have heard from the council the area will become a closed military zone so that a watchtower can be built. This will prevent people from having access to their property and land.
We understand you have fears this may lead to a settlement being built?
This is how they normally begin, with a military confiscation of land, leading to a civilian community living there. We know that some settlement groups intend to build here, as the site (known as Shdema in Hebrew) is apparently related to a historic fight in the bible. If this site is linked to Har Homa (a settlement north of Beit Sahour that includes part of the town’s land), we will be completely surrounded, with severe movement restrictions. Typically this would also involve evictions and house demolitions.
Article continues...
http://www.palestinemonitor.org/spip/spip.php?article1276
To highlight Israel’s building plans and to convey a message that this is a serious issue, that will seriously impact on the people of Beit Sahour. We have heard from the council the area will become a closed military zone so that a watchtower can be built. This will prevent people from having access to their property and land.
We understand you have fears this may lead to a settlement being built?
This is how they normally begin, with a military confiscation of land, leading to a civilian community living there. We know that some settlement groups intend to build here, as the site (known as Shdema in Hebrew) is apparently related to a historic fight in the bible. If this site is linked to Har Homa (a settlement north of Beit Sahour that includes part of the town’s land), we will be completely surrounded, with severe movement restrictions. Typically this would also involve evictions and house demolitions.
Article continues...
http://www.palestinemonitor.org/spip/spip.php?article1276
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