Israel's Supreme Court Orders Palestinian Family's Return Home

Israel's Supreme Court has ordered the state and military to facilitate the return of a Palestinian family to their home in the village of Jalud, south of Nablus, within 14 days. The family was forced to leave their residence due to ongoing attacks, according to a petition filed with the court. Lawyer Giyath Nasser, representing the family, stated that the ruling mandates not only the formal return of the residents but also ensures their safety and provides the necessary conditions for repairing damage to their property.

The case originated with the establishment of a settler outpost within Area B, approximately 700 meters inside territory under Palestinian civil control. Nasser explained that this outpost was followed by a series of attacks against residents, including stone-throwing, cutting off water and electricity, and property damage, culminating in the family's forced departure on July 22. The Supreme Court held an urgent session last week before issuing its order.

Nasser emphasized that the court addressed concerns about renewed attacks on the family, thus requiring security assurances for their return and the ability to bring in building materials for repairs. He noted the court's intent to clarify its stance on recurring events in the West Bank, particularly given what he described as insufficient military action to prevent or address such attacks.

The court described the situation as "very bleak" regarding law enforcement in the area, affirming the military governor's responsibility to protect local residents and enforce the law. It stated that settlers cannot be allowed to control Palestinian homes without military intervention. The court issued an order to evacuate settlers from occupied homes and return them to their owners.

During the hearing, the court questioned state and military representatives about the failure to arrest perpetrators or confiscate vehicles seen in recordings related to the incidents. The prosecution reportedly lacked clear answers to the judges' questions. The defense team presented video evidence suggesting not only a lack of law enforcement but also cooperation between soldiers and settlers, including soldiers playing soccer with settlers at the site of attacks. Evidence of supplies reaching settlers without military intervention was also presented.

The court characterized the events as acts of violence and rioting, stressing that the core issue was the failure to enforce the law while Palestinians were attacked and expelled from their homes. While the current petition did not seek financial compensation, Nasser indicated that the damages could lead to future compensation claims against the military or settlers.

Separately, Nasser mentioned another petition concerning events in the town of Qusra, where a resident was also affected by settler attacks. The Supreme Court has requested a response from the state and assigned the case to a three-judge panel for an urgent hearing due to repeated violence in the area. Nasser stated that the upcoming phase will be a true test of the court's decisions being implemented on the ground.