Israeli Security Forces Demolish Homes in Benjamin Settlement

Israeli security forces conducted a predawn raid in the settlement of Kfar Tarfon, located in the Benjamin region near the town of Ateret, demolishing three homes and several agricultural structures. Approximately 100 Border Police officers and Civil Administration inspectors, accompanied by heavy bulldozers, arrived at the site around 3 a.m. on November 12, 2026. The operation, which also saw the destruction of a sheep pen, chicken coop, and communal dining area, resulted in the confiscation of two vehicles and various farming equipment belonging to the residents. Eyewitnesses reported that residents were confined to their homes during the demolition. According to Kfar Tarfon residents, the demolitions were a response to a petition filed with the Supreme Court by Arab claimants concerning the nearby archaeological site of Khirbet Tarfin. The settlers claim the petitioners illegally occupied the historical site, damaged ancient ruins, and erected two illegal structures. Residents condemned the authorities' actions, calling it a perversion of justice. They stated that the Khirbet Tarfin site, dating back to the Second Temple period, had long been subject to looting by treasure hunters. While the Civil Administration had previously cleared the site of unauthorized construction, the settlers claim the perpetrators returned and rebuilt. The community emphasized that their presence had prevented further destruction of antiquities. However, the Arab claimants petitioned the Supreme Court to evict the settlers and secure their return to the site. Residents expressed outrage that the Ministry of Defense and Civil Administration did not contest the lawsuit, failed to present evidence of vandalism at the ruins, and instead demolished the Jewish settlement.