Israel Orders Removal of Dozens of Palestinian Businesses Near East Jerusalem

(MENAFN) Israeli authorities have instructed the removal of around 50 commercial establishments in the Palestinian town of Al-Eizariya, located southeast of East Jerusalem, as part of preparations tied to a disputed settlement initiative in the area, according to reports.

Local authorities in Jerusalem stated that dozens of Palestinian shop owners were verbally informed to vacate their businesses in the Al-Mashtal area, situated at the main entrance of Al-Eizariya, before Sunday morning. The move is connected to previously issued demolition orders dating back to August 2025.

Officials also warned that if the owners do not comply within the given deadline, the buildings and all their contents would be demolished. Appeals against these orders have reportedly been filed in an Israeli court, with hearings expected later in the month.

The planned demolitions are linked to the “E1” project, which is intended to expand settlement connections between the Maale Adumim bloc and East Jerusalem. According to reports, this plan is seen by Palestinian officials as a major development that could split the West Bank into two separate areas and further isolate Palestinian communities.

In addition, it is reported that the broader project includes new road systems, featuring tunnels and separate routes intended for Palestinian and Israeli use. The initiative has long faced international opposition due to concerns that it could disrupt the territorial continuity required for a future Palestinian state.

Separately, recent reports indicate that dozens of demolition operations were carried out across the occupied West Bank in April, affecting a wide range of Palestinian properties, including homes and agricultural structures.

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