Zionist forces begin demolition of two inhabited homes in Bethlehem
BETHLEHEM, July 22 (YPA) – Israeli occupation forces on Wednesday morning began demolishing two Palestinian-owned inhabited homes in the towns of Nahhalin and Za’atara in the Bethlehem governorate, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported, citing local sources.
According to the sources, Israeli forces raided Nahhalin, west of Bethlehem, and proceeded to demolish a two-storey home belonging to Adel Hassan Azazmeh, with each floor measuring 170 square meters.
The sources noted that an Israeli court had previously rejected an appeal seeking to halt the demolition of 14 homes in the town.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces raided the town of Za’atara, east of Bethlehem, and began demolishing the home of Ra’ed Hassan Abu Raiya. The house consists of a basement and two floors, each measuring 110 square meters, and housed a family of seven.
Abu Raiya said Israeli forces had notified him yesterday, Tuesday, to leave the house before beginning its demolition today, Wednesday.
The previous night, Israeli forces also raided the village of Artas, south of Bethlehem, and searched two homes belonging to local residents. No detentions were reported.
According to the Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission, Israeli occupation authorities carried out 341 demolition operations during the first half of 2026, resulting in the destruction of 740 structures and affecting 923 Palestinians, including 546 children and 431 women. During the same period, Israeli authorities also issued demolition notices for 254 structures under the pretext of lacking building permits.
@E.Y.M