The Perilous Reality of Palestinian Villages in the West Bank

Foreign Policy Brief #137 | By: Aziza Taslaq | April 17, 2024

Featured Photo: www.apnews.com

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Amid the ongoing chaotic situation in Gaza, a disturbing trend has emerged in the West Bank. Israeli settlers are targeting Palestinian villages in a series of attacks that resemble some of the darkest moments in the history of the conflict. These attacks involve vandalism, arson, and intimidation, causing harassment and fear to arise in an already volatile region.

The tragic fate of the Dawabsheh family in 2015 is a terrible reminder of the consequences of unchecked militancy. A nasty fire broke out in the small West Bank village of Duma on July 31, 2015. The perpetrators set the Dawabsheh family home on fire, killing 18-month-old Ali Dawabsheh instantly. His parents, Saad and Reham Dawabsheh suffered severe burns and injuries, and both died within weeks of the attack. The terrible news devastated the Dawabsheh family and destroyed their community.

The wounds of this tragedy have not yet healed, and the latest wave of attacks adds to the suffering and trauma it continues to inflict on the Palestinian people. As violence increases in the region, it is important for all affected to remember the human toll of such atrocities and work towards a peaceful and just solution.

In April 2024, an attention-grabbing conflict arose when an Israeli shepherd disappeared without a trace. The incident left the community confused and upset, leaving many questions unanswered. His body was later found lying motionless on the ground. The cause of his death, however, remained a complete mystery, leaving all involved with more questions than answers.

Villages in the northern West Bank are once again being targeted by settlers with brutal violence, perpetuating the ongoing conflict in the region. Areas such as Duma, Mughayyer, Turmus Ayya, Attara Abu Falah, Bitten, Deer Dabwan near Ramallah city, and Qusra and Hawwara near Nablus city, have been turned into war zones, threatening the physical security, overall security, and sense of belonging of citizens The trends remind us of the revelation it is a nightmare where houses and cars are on fire, leaving behind a trail of destruction that is a zombie movie It brings to mind.

The Israeli settlers, who are armed and protected by the IDF, have attacked Palestinians, resulting in the loss of their lives, homes, lands, and even families. Despite having no weapons to defend themselves, Palestinians have resorted to using only stones. In one instance, a settler attack on Al-Mughayyer village resulted in the death of an 18-year-old young man, 18 injuries, and the burning of over 10 houses and a number of cars.

Anwar, a 30-year-old young man from Duma village who was working hard to build his dream house and start a family with his wife, suffered a similar fate. In one of the settler attacks, his home was burned down, and all his efforts were in vain. Anwar found himself unable to make a media appearance following the tragic event, preventing him from describing the suffering he had experienced in his life.

The conflict in the West Bank has led to severe restrictions on Palestinians’ freedom of movement, making their daily lives more difficult. Since the conflict began on October 7, Palestinians have faced tremendous hardship daily through day programs, including remote studying for students and remote working for companies. These measures have not only made life difficult for Palestinians but have also highlighted the far-reaching impact of the conflict beyond the immediate violence. The restrictions prevent access to essential supplies.

The conflict has also caused tremendous psychological stress and trauma to people, especially children, who live in constant fear of violence. The situation remains dire, and urgent action is needed to solve the humanitarian crisis and establish a lasting peace. The war against Gaza continues as settlers once again target villages in the northern West Bank with horrific brutality. Areas such as Duma, Mughayr, Abu Falah, and Hawwara have been turned into war zones, threatening the physical security, overall security, and sense of belonging of citizens. The trends remind us of the revelation that it is a nightmare where houses and cars are on fire, leaving behind a trail of destruction, which is a zombie movie it brings to mind.

In the middle of the current crisis in Gaza, it is important not to forget the suffering of Palestinians in the West Bank. The international community must strongly condemn attacks on Palestinian villages and hold them accountable for their actions. It is important to address the root causes of conflict and prioritize the rights and dignity of all people involved. Justice and accountability must triumph over impunity and violence.

There are few signs of hope in the middle of despair and darkness. Their calm strength and determination under pressure are to be commended. We must ensure that their voices are heard as they call for justice, peace, and a better future for all who live in this country.

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