APN | Jab'a – Bethlehem

10 February 2024

 

The western villages of Bethlehem governorate serve as a steadfast Palestinian barrier encircling Jerusalem, making them prime targets for occupation-led land seizures. Jab'a village is no exception; a staggering 69% of its territory has already been annexed into the Israeli settlement bloc referred to as "Gush Etzion". Israel's intends to annex these areas to expand the borders of greater Jerusalem.

Since 2000, the occupation has uprooted approximately 4,500 olive, grape, and stone fruit trees. Additionally, the village faces ongoing movement restrictions, with permanent military checkpoints and earth mounds installed at its entrances.

Upon hearing the plea from farmers Ahmed and Samih in Jab'a, APN reached the village to plant 500 trees in their orchards, which lie adjacent to the Bat Ayin settlement. Despite facing challenges in reaching these orchards in previous years, including repeated attacks by settlers aimed at facilitating land confiscation, APN remained committed to supporting the community.