Israel Demolishes Illegal Structures in West Bank, Citing Security and Antiquities Risks

Israeli security forces conducted targeted operations in the Ephraim and Benjamin sectors of the West Bank over the past two days to dismantle illegal Palestinian construction. The demolitions were aimed at structures deemed a security and environmental hazard.

On Sunday, forces from the Ephraim Coordination and Liaison Administration, accompanied by a supervision unit and regional brigade soldiers, raided the village of Shuweika. The operation focused on destroying unauthorized construction elements erected near the security fence and in proximity to the Israeli settlements of Bachan and Bat Hefer. Security officials stated the construction was in Area C, in direct violation of a building prohibition order, creating an immediate security and safety threat.

The enforcement expanded on Monday to the Benjamin sector, near the village of Beit Zait. Forces from the Benjamin Coordination and Liaison Administration, along with a supervision unit and brigade forces, operated near the archaeological site of Wadi Zeitun springs (Ein Obeid). They demolished illegal construction infrastructure within this Area C site, which is adjacent to an ancient road to Jerusalem and below the historical site of Khirbet Tzurfan, dating back to the First and Second Temple periods.

The IDF, Civil Administration, and security agencies emphasized that these decisive actions will continue as part of efforts to maintain law and order, focusing on construction that jeopardizes security and stability.