Qalqilya: Israeli occupation forces have continued, for the sixth consecutive day, the closure of agricultural gates surrounding the Qalqilya governorate, banning Palestinian farmers from accessing their own lands located behind the separation wall.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, Ahmed Eid, Director of the Qalqilya Agriculture Directorate, reported that since Saturday, Israeli troops have closed approximately 12 agricultural gates. These gates are essential for over 100 farmers who rely on them daily to access their farmland.
Eid explained that nearly 300 dunams of irrigated agricultural land lie behind the separation wall in various areas of the governorate. These lands are cultivated with crops such as citrus fruits, avocados, almonds, open-field vegetables, and thyme, which demand daily care and maintenance.
He emphasized that the continued closure of the gates and the obstruction of farmers' access could lead to significant agricultural losses if the situation persists. Farmers have already faced challenges due to restricted gate opening hours and bans on certain agricultural equipment, but they now find themselves completely barred from reaching their lands.