Israeli Military Has Yet to Evict Settler Tent Near Palestinian Homes in Kousra
A day after the Israeli military announced preparations to evacuate a lone settler tent established near Palestinian homes in the village of Kousra, the structure remains intact as of Tuesday. Security sources confirmed that three illegal outposts were removed in recent days alongside offensive operations, with further evacuations planned based on situational assessments. However, the tent and additional encampments continue to stand in Kousra, where settlers have recently set up several outposts in the area.
Video footage released on Monday showed Israeli soldiers praying alongside settlers at the Kousra outpost, a presence that has heightened tensions with local Palestinian residents. The Israeli military spokesperson stated that the incident was under investigation and disciplinary measures would follow if warranted. Kousra council head Abd al-Azim Wadi told ynet that settlers remain continuously present at multiple sites, with numbers fluctuating between 10 and 16 individuals. He emphasized that the encampments include several tents spread across different locations about 200 to 250 meters apart, and settlers have also taken over a building belonging to a Salfit resident.
Wadi reported that settlers do not leave the area, with vehicles regularly delivering food, water, and supplies. Meanwhile, the Palestinian family affected still lacks running water due to disconnection by the local water company, relying on solar power for electricity. The family faces medical challenges, with two daughters needing treatment. Palestinian coordination officials have informed Wadi that the settlers are expected to evacuate soon.
The outposts were established roughly six months ago within the yards of Palestinian homes in Area B, not Area C, according to Wadi. He described a siege on three houses, with settlers cutting off electricity and obstructing food deliveries. Kousra neighbors the village of Jalud, which has experienced similar settler harassment leading to Palestinian displacement. Last month, a Jalud resident reported being unable to leave his home due to settler threats and violence, forcing his family to relocate for safety.
