Struggles of a Jerusalemite: Khalaf Muhammad Awda's Fight Against Occupation
Khalaf Muhammad Awda, a lifelong resident of Jabal Al-Mukabbir in Jerusalem, faces the harsh realities of living under occupation. His home, built during the Jordanian era before the Israeli occupation in 1967, has become a battleground for his rights as the Israeli municipality has ordered the demolition of an additional building he constructed in 2006. Despite his efforts to obtain a legal license, Awda has been met with repeated refusals, forcing him to engage in a lengthy and costly legal struggle that he describes as a fight against a system that seems rigged against him.
Awda's home, which spans approximately 70 square meters, is surrounded by a 9,600 square meter plot of land filled with ancient olive trees, some of which are thousands of years old. The view from his property, overlooking the Al-Aqsa Mosque, is one that many Muslims around the world yearn for. Awda expresses deep emotional ties to his land, stating, “This is the most beautiful land facing Al-Aqsa. We are steadfast and persevering until we are liberated.” His connection to the land is not merely physical but deeply rooted in cultural and historical significance.
The Emotional Toll of Occupation
As the deadline for the demolition approaches, Awda has taken matters into his own hands, beginning to dismantle his own home to avoid potential fines from the authorities. He uses light tools to preserve the original structure of his house, a poignant symbol of his resistance against the occupation. Awda's plight highlights the broader issues faced by many Palestinians in Jerusalem, where construction is heavily restricted, and taxes are imposed, making it increasingly difficult for residents to maintain their homes and dignity.
In a heartfelt moment, Awda reflects on the dignity of Jerusalem's residents, lamenting, “They do not let us live with dignity. There are taxes, construction is prohibited. This is archaeological land, this is confiscated land, this is state land.” His words resonate with the struggles of many Palestinians who feel marginalized and oppressed in their own homeland.
A Call for Solidarity
Awda's story is not just about the fight for his home but also a call for solidarity among Muslims worldwide. He expresses hope that the Muslim community will stand with Palestinians in their quest for liberation, stating, “Our hope is in the Muslims, not the Arab countries.” His plea underscores the need for greater awareness and support for the Palestinian cause, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges posed by the occupation.
As Awda continues to navigate the complexities of life under occupation, his determination to remain steadfast in his home serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Palestinian people.
