EU Countries Demand Compensation from Israel for Demolition of Funded Structures in West Bank

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) demolish 7 EU funded West Bank Beduin structures – Jerusalem Periphery Forum photo.

Brussels, MINA – Eight European Union member states have demanded €30,000 ($35,400) in compensation from Israel for the confiscation and demolition of structures in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.

Eight European Union member states have sent a protest letter to Israeli Foreign Ministry demanding compensation from Israel for the confiscation and demolition of structures in the occupied West Bank

The group of eight is led by Belgium and includes France, Spain, Sweden, Luxembourg, Italy, Ireland and Denmark.

In this particular instance, the eight European governments are protesting the confiscation of solar panels, as well as the demolition of mobile structures that were financed in various Palestinian communities to serve as classrooms.

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All eight countries are members of the “West Bank Protection Consortium”, which coordinates humanitarian assistance to Area C – around 60 per cent – of the West Bank.

Palestinians living in Area C face systematic discrimination when it comes to planning and housing, and a number of NGOs and European governments have been providing support to communities targeted by the Israeli authorities for demolitions.

The letter stresses that if Israel does not unconditionally return the equipment it seized, then compensation will be demanded. The letter also notes that the demolition and seizure of humanitarian equipment contravenes Israel’s obligations under international law. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)