Umm al-Khair

Pictured here: This week, CPT visited the village of Umm al-Khair and stayed over for the night. Umm al-Khair is a village situated in the South Hebron Hills, about a 15-minute drive from the town of Yatta. Umm al-Khair is under imminent threat of demolition by the Israeli Military.

(June 22, 2017)

Drones + Regavim= Demolition

Pictured here: On this day a Regavim drone flew over the village of Umm al-Khair. The past process of demolitions has begun with drones flying over the village, followed by visits from Regavim, an organization that claims to monitor construction on Palestinians’ own land. Both the drone and Regavim take multiple photographs. Demolitions frequently take place after these two visits have occurred.

Photo Credit: Umm Al-Khair community
(June 22, 2017)

When will they return?

Pictured here: A local leader looks on as the civil administration car and border police drive away from Umm al-Khair. Over the years, Umm al-Khair has experienced multiple demolitions of its village. Homes, a community centre, playgrounds, toilets, tents, and Tabun ovens have all been demolished. Situated in Area C (under full control of the Israeli Military), Umm al-Khair is required to have a permit when any structure is to be built. Israel approves less than 1.5% of permit requests in Area C. A village of roughly 150 people, Umm al-Khair is under constant threat of demolition. This past week, the possibility of demolition has increased with the visit of the drones and the civil administration; it is likely that the demolition will take place in the next few weeks. For more information on demolitions in Area C, read more here…

Photo credit: Umm al-Khair community
(June 22, 2017)

Karmel settlement

Pictured here: The first settlement home was established in Karmal, on Umm al-Khair land, in 1981. Guarded by Israeli soldiers, separated with only a dirt road and flimsy fence, this settlement is situated right next to the community of Umm al-Khair. It has expanded several times over the years, continually taking over more land.

(June 25, 2017)

Remains

Pictured here: Rubble and materials from previous home demolitions still remain. These remains are from a home that is situated near the children’s playground. For updates on Umm al-Khair, follow their facebook page here.

(June 25, 2017)