Israeli authorities have ordered the demolition of nearly 50 Palestinian commercial facilities in the Al-Eizariya area near East Jerusalem. The move is linked by Palestinian officials to the controversial E1 settlement expansion plan. The decision has raised concerns over escalating tensions in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Jerusalem Governorate, shop owners in the Al-Mashtal area were verbally notified to evacuate their businesses by Sunday. The demolition orders were originally issued in August 2025 and are now set to be enforced. Authorities warned that failure to comply would result in immediate destruction of properties and goods.
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Palestinian officials say legal appeals have been filed against the orders in an Israeli court. Hearings on the matter are expected later this month. They argue that the demolitions are part of broader efforts to expand settlement infrastructure in the region.
The actions are reportedly connected to the E1 settlement project, which aims to link the Maale Adumim bloc with East Jerusalem. Critics warn that the plan could divide the West Bank into northern and southern sections. It is also expected to isolate several Palestinian communities and restrict movement.
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The E1 project has faced long-standing international opposition due to concerns over its impact on a future Palestinian state. The United Nations and other bodies consider Israeli settlements in the West Bank illegal under international law.