Settlers Impose New Reality on Palestinian Families in West Bank Village
The siege on three Palestinian families in the village of Qusra, near Mount Ras al-Ain in the West Bank, has entered its 38th day, according to Abdul Azim Wadi, the mayor of Qusra. Wadi warned that settlers are attempting to impose a new reality by restricting the movement of residents, requiring permits to enter and exit their homes. He stated that these families are an integral part of Qusra and that the area is classified under Oslo Accords as Area B, with the Qusra municipality providing essential services like electricity and water.
The restrictions have escalated to the point where residents need permits to move between their homes and the village. Wadi cited the example of a teacher who requires a permit to travel to Qusra for work, and her family members need coordination and permits to visit her. These limitations impact not only work but also social and family life, preventing residents from attending social events, weddings, or funerals. The new school year has begun, but two young girls, Kinda and Hour, remain in the besieged area.
The families face a difficult choice: leave their homes and move into the village, or remain in the area and forgo normal access to education and work. The area around Mount Ras al-Ain is reportedly blocked by barriers and occupied by settlers, increasing fears for residents' safety, especially after it was declared a closed military zone. Wadi noted that 12 individuals from the three families have submitted their IDs to the Israeli Civil Administration for movement permits.
Wadi estimated that the siege extends beyond these families, preventing other villagers from accessing their agricultural lands, olive trees, unfinished homes, and essential utility lines requiring maintenance. He recounted an incident where the Al-Birouti family was allegedly attacked by over 40 settlers while attempting to reach their unfinished three-story home, with family members reportedly detained by the army for two hours.
Wadi expressed concern that the continued presence of settlers could lead to escalation and violence. He highlighted the educational challenges for the children, stating that ensuring their school access is extremely difficult. The father of one besieged family has been unable to work for 38 days, risking his livelihood and his ability to reach his home. Wadi stressed the need to break the siege and allow families to live freely and safely, calling the ongoing measures a dangerous precedent for the West Bank.
