Anas Samir, a 42-year-old father of four, appears disheartened as he sits outside his grocery shop in Al-Eizariya, a Palestinian town near Jerusalem, smoking. Witnessing the gradual loss of land that Palestinians hoped would one day form part of an independent state to Israel’s settlement activities has been distressing for him over the years.
The recent blow came when he and several others along the town’s main entrance were notified by the Israeli military about impending demolition orders. This action follows the Israeli government’s approval of plans to expand the nearby Jewish settlement of Ma’ale Adumim towards Jerusalem.
Considered illegal under international law, all settlements in the Israeli-occupied territories face opposition. However, the proposed expansion of Ma’ale Adumim is particularly contentious as it aims to thwart the establishment of a Palestinian state, as underscored by recent recognitions, such as Canada’s acknowledgment of a Palestinian state.
According to Palestinian lawyer Hiba Husseini, the expansion serves as a form of retaliation against countries like Canada that have recognized the State of Palestine. It sends a strong message to the West that Israel will pursue its agenda regardless of international recognition.
The planned expansion of Ma’ale Adumim, incorporating the E1 area between the settlement and East Jerusalem, is a strategic move, according to Mayor Guy Yifrach. However, Palestinians fear this expansion will further isolate East Jerusalem from the West Bank, making the goal of a contiguous Palestinian state unattainable.
The E1 plan, in existence for years, has been revived due to support from the Trump administration and the recent conflict in Gaza. This escalation in settlement activities reflects the Israeli government’s stance against a two-state solution, as noted by former negotiator Hiba Husseini.
The dire situation is exacerbated by the increasing violence against Palestinians by hardline settlers, leading to displacement and casualties. Many Palestinians express concerns about the future as Israeli settlement expansion continues unabated.
Amid the uncertainty, Anas Samir faces a bleak outlook, having previously lost his business due to barriers restricting movement between Al Eizariya and Jerusalem. The prospects for a viable Palestinian state seem dim, with the need for immediate action and international support to salvage the two-state solution.
In conclusion, the path to peace and coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians lies in a negotiated two-state solution. Despite the current challenges and distrust, efforts persist to find a resolution to the long-standing conflict.
