Eviction of Palestinian Families in Silwan: A Growing Concern
In a distressing development in occupied Jerusalem, five Palestinian families were forced to evacuate their homes in the Al-Bustan neighborhood of Silwan on October 26, 2024, in preparation for their imminent demolition. This action is part of a broader pattern of demolitions in the area, with a total of 27 facilities destroyed since the beginning of the year, according to reports from Al Jazeera.
Othman Al-Ruwaidi, one of the affected homeowners, recounted that his house, built in 2002, was targeted by Israeli forces who had previously stormed the property to assess it for demolition. The families, totaling 28 individuals, including many children, now face displacement as they are compelled to vacate their homes. Al-Ruwaidi emphasized that the demolition is justified by the Israeli authorities as part of a plan to establish biblical gardens and promote settlement expansion, effectively displacing local residents.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has reported that, this year alone, the demolition of 169 Palestinian facilities across Jerusalem has resulted in the displacement of 415 individuals and significant damage to numerous properties. This ongoing situation raises serious humanitarian concerns regarding the rights and living conditions of Palestinian families in the region.
