Khan al-ahmar: The Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar, located east of occupied Jerusalem, is once again at the forefront of a contentious struggle over Palestinian presence following Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's renewed push for its evacuation. The move is viewed as part of a larger initiative impacting not only this small community but also the future of Jerusalem and the territorial cohesion of Palestinian geography.
According to Palestine news and Information Agency, Smotrich issued an immediate order to evacuate Khan al-Ahmar following the International Criminal Court's decision to seek an arrest warrant against him. This was quickly followed by the Israeli authorities' announcement of a new settlement outpost near the community's school, close to Ma'ale Adumim and Kfar Adumim settlements. This decision is intertwined with the 'Greater Jerusalem' plan, a long-term settlement project aimed at extending toward the Dead Sea, tightening the settlement ring around Jerusalem, and disrupting the geographical continuity of a potential Palestinian state.
Khan al-Ahmar is strategically important due to its location, serving as the last eastern corridor connecting Palestinians to Jerusalem. The community, home to approximately 320 residents, is crucial in the efforts to isolate East Jerusalem from its Palestinian surroundings. Eid Khamees, head of the village council, highlights the historical context, noting that the current displacement plan is an extension of policies dating back to the 1967 occupation when the area was initially declared a closed military zone.
Residents of Khan al-Ahmar live in constant fear of abrupt demolitions, forming patrol groups and organizing solidarity activities to maintain their presence. Unlike in 2018, when international pressure delayed demolition plans, current conditions are more challenging due to escalating Israeli actions across the West Bank and diminished international focus amid global crises.
The community faces restrictions on grazing and work opportunities, coupled with repeated targeting of humanitarian projects. Resident Mohammad Abu Dahouk, born in Khan al-Ahmar, emphasizes the historical roots of the community on the land and the psychological toll of living under constant threat of eviction.
Amir Dawood, from the Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission, warns that Khan al-Ahmar's evacuation is part of a broader Israeli annexation strategy aimed at depopulating the Jerusalem periphery and fragmenting the West Bank further. Dawood calls for urgent international action beyond mere condemnations, urging the application of pressure on Israel to halt displacement policies and support resident resilience.
Despite ongoing pressures and new settlement activities, Khan al-Ahmar's residents remain steadfast, aware that their struggle is emblematic of broader issues concerning the future of Jerusalem and the viability of an independent Palestinian state.