This Friday, July 24, Israeli peace activists will be demonstrating in the South Hebron Hills in an attempt to save the Palestinian Village of Susiya.

Activists against the occupation have been quoted as saying that “the efforts we have been making in the Knesset, in the press, in the courts, and in the international community have opened up a window of possibly saving Susiya. Senior army officials feel the pressure and are talking about a potential solution. However, these officers also are openly talking about the pressure they feel from those who want to raze Susiya before the Supreme Court makes its ruling on the villagers appeal on August 3. Above all it is our presence that gives the tenacious residents of Susiya the courage to fight. Nasser Nawaja once said ‘When we were expelled from our homes in 1986. There was nothing we could do. We were all alone. We are in great danger again. But, there is one big difference: We aren’t alone anymore.’”

Hadash MK Dov Khenin (Joint List) addressed Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon (Likud) in writing on Monday, July 19, requesting that Israel not demolish Susiya. “I address you to demand an immediate cancelling of the demolition threats hanging over the homes of the residents, and any attempt to conduct underhanded opportunism even before the court discusses their petition,” wrote Khenin. The communist MK added: “it is not acceptable that the right to shelter of 250 residents of the village will be trampled on.”

Buses for the demonstration will be leaving from Liberty Bell Park in Jerusalem at 12:00, and from the Arlozorov Train Station in Tel Aviv at 11:30. Both buses will be returning to their points of origin before Shabbat. For more information: tel. 02 648 2757.

Additional ways to help the residents of Susiya:

• Volunteer to provide 24/7 presence with the residents of Susiya. This is so that we will be with them should demolition activities begin. Overnight shifts start at 7pm in the evening until 10am the following day.
• Volunteer to run down quickly to Susiya on short notice if this becomes necessary.
• Facebook the event page of the solidarity actions in Susiya
• Update friends, family, and colleagues on Susiya’s struggle against displacement
• Disseminate the media round-up of recent press on Susiya

Related:

• Hundreds March against Planned Demolition of Palestinian West Bank Village
• Occupation Administration Maps Susiya – Palestinian Residents Fear Imminent Demolition
• Hadash: Solidarity with Susya residents