Image Credits: Al Jazeera
Tension has increased in the Jerusalem area after Israeli forces destroyed a gas station for security reasons. The incident sparked outrage and condemnation from Palestinian officials, exacerbating long-standing tensions over land rights and sovereignty.
Early Monday morning, Israeli military bulldozers along with security forces moved into the al-Eizariyya neighborhood east of Jerusalem. They continued to demolish the al-Khaldi gas station, claiming it was built without proper permits and posed a security threat due to its proximity to a main road used by Israeli settlers.
Palestinian witnesses described a heavy military presence during the operation that destroyed the gas station. “They didn’t warn us,” gas station owner Mahmoud al-Khaldi said. Israeli officials defended the demolition, saying it followed legal procedures. An Israeli spokesman mentioned that the building was built illegally and posed a security risk. They apologize for any inconvenience, but safety considerations must come first.
The demolition comes amid ongoing disputes over land ownership and building permits in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Palestinians say that obtaining building permits from Israeli authorities is difficult and often denied, leading to unauthorized construction as a necessary means.
The predominantly Palestinian neighbourhood of Al-Eizariya has seen repeated clashes between residents and Israeli forces over the cultivation and expansion of Israeli settlements. These tensions were the focus of international criticism and stalled peace negotiations.
“This demolition is a clear violation of international law and Palestinian rights,” said Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). “This is part of a systematic policy to change the demographic and geographic characteristics of Jerusalem and its surroundings.”
International condemnation was also swift. “The destruction of civilian infrastructure, including essential services such as petrol stations, is deeply worrying,” a UN spokesman said. “We call on all parties to refrain from actions that increase tensions and undermine peace.”
The demolition of the gas station near Jerusalem is seen as part of a wider Israeli policy in the occupied territories to strengthen control and defend territorial claims. Critics say such moves undermine prospects for a two-state solution and increase mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians.