co-written by: Ahmad Jaradat

The Israeli army has surrounded and isolated many Palestinian villages in the north part of the West Bank. The destabilizing closures were enforced two days ago in the area spanning between Nablus and Jenin. Four Israeli settlements in this particular area are slated for withdrawal in two weeks. People suspect the closures will remain in effect at least until the deadline for the Israeli withdrawal, particularly on the main roads.

The Zatara checkpoint, a checkpoint on the major roadway system allowing for transportation between the northern and southern areas of the West Bank, remains closed. For two weeks Palestinians have been unable to reach Ramallah directly, and have resorted to using longer and more difficult alternative routes. These closures have a destabilizing effect on Palestinian livelihood and economy.

Israeli forces Israeli forces invaded Palestinian towns south of Hebron, taking into custody 25 Palestinians. They were held and interrogated for three hours. The troops raided four houses during this time. The Israeli army claimed the raids were ordered for the purpose of finding a wanted member of a Palestinian faction group in the area, but the houses belonged to families. The contents of the houses were damaged as a result.

240 Palestinians in the Ktsiot prison were placed in the isolated area “3” of the prison last week and are living under dire conditions. The section has not been used since 1994. The prisoners have no electricity or necessary materials. They are not supplied blankets despite the cool temperatures at night in the desert.