Israel Demolishes 40 Homes in Unrecognized Negev Village Amid Protests

London, Sept 18 (VoM): Israeli authorities have demolished 40 homes in the Bedouin village of as-Sir, an unrecognized community in the Negev desert, sparking protests and clashes with local residents.

According to the Wafa news agency, police forces deployed sound and smoke grenades to disperse demonstrators who resisted the demolitions as bulldozers arrived. Residents attempted to block the operation, but dozens of families were left homeless or at risk of imminent displacement.

Authorities recently issued demolition notices to around 50 families in as-Sir, in addition to 30 notifications delivered last week. Villagers say no alternative housing or compensation has been provided and accuse the government of uprooting trees and clearing land to prevent their return.

The latest demolitions come as part of a wider campaign. In recent months, more than 60 homes and agricultural structures in as-Sir have been torn down in three phases. A court ruling has ordered the complete evacuation of the village, which could see over 200 additional homes destroyed in the coming weeks.

Israel classifies around 40 Bedouin villages in the Negev as “unrecognized,” affecting approximately 55,000 residents who are unable to obtain official building permits or prove formal land ownership.

Arab citizens of Israel, including the Bedouins, make up about 1.6 million people, roughly 20 percent of the country’s population.

@Voice of Malaysia news