The story of Jabal Subaih, nestled amidst the Palestinian villages of Beita, Yatma, and Qablan in the north of occupied Nablus, is one that should be etched into the annals of history as a heroic saga in the relentless battle against Israeli theft and colonialism.
Since the 1980s, Israeli settlers and the government have relentlessly sought to seize this land to construct new Israeli settlements. However, the determination of the Palestinian people has repeatedly failed these Israeli plans.
The Battle for Jabal Subaih
For decades, Jabal Subaih has been a focal point of contention between Palestinian residents and Israeli settlers. Israeli authorities have coveted this strategically located hill in their pursuit of territorial expansion.
The area has been earmarked for the construction of new Israeli settlements, despite the fact that such actions contravene international law.
The Palestinian people, guided by their indomitable spirit, have time and again thwarted Israeli efforts to seize Jabal Subaih.
Their steadfastness and resolve have become a symbol of resistance against colonialism. The history of Jabal Subaih is replete with instances where Palestinian communities banded together to protect their land and heritage.
Avitar Settlement Outpost
In 2018, Israeli settlers made an audacious incursion into Jabal Subaih, establishing the Avitar settlement outpost.
This brazen act sparked outrage among the Palestinian population, who saw it as yet another affront to their land and rights. The establishment of this outpost marked a turning point in the ongoing struggle.
The 2021 Battle for Liberation
As the people of Nablus and Jabal Subaih refused to capitulate, they launched a 65-day battle of protests in 2021 aimed at driving the settlers out.
Their determination and resolve led to the eventual eviction of the settlers from Avitar. However, this victory came at a high cost – the lives of 5 Palestinian youths who were tragically shot dead by Israeli occupation forces.
Throughout the struggle in Jabal Subaih, Israeli troops took the lives of 11 Palestinians. These brave individuals paid the ultimate price in their quest to protect their land and heritage from colonization.
Earlier in April 2023, a contingent of 2,200 Israeli settlers, led by seven Israeli ministers, marched to the evacuated Avitar settlement.
Their objective was to demand the legalization of the Avitar settlement. This incursion resulted in clashes that left 121 Palestinians injured, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the region.
Weekly Protests and International Law
Every Friday, Palestinians in Jabal Subaih organize protests, calling for an end to Israeli theft and settlement expansion. These weekly demonstrations serve as a poignant reminder of the community’s resilience and determination.
Under international law, Israeli settlements in occupied Palestine are unequivocally illegal. Despite this, Israel continues to expand settlements in Palestinian territories with apparent impunity, further exacerbating tensions in the region.
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