Israeli authorities demolished around 50 homes belonging to Bedouins in the Negev desert on Wednesday, sparking outrage among the community members. The bulldozers flattened houses in the Wadi al-Khalil village, leaving its 500 residents, including children and women, stranded outside.
Residents like Sleiman Abu Asa expressed their frustration, stating, “They are demolishing our homes, leaving us with nowhere else to go.” The destruction was carried out under the claim that the homes were “illegal constructions,” according to Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.
The Bedouins have faced difficulties in Israeli society for years, with many living in villages not recognized by Israel and lacking basic services like garbage collection. Activist Taleb el-Sana reported that 48 homes were demolished, leaving families homeless.
The destruction of the village has been condemned as an act of discrimination against Arab citizens, with accusations that Israel does not allow them to obtain building permits and then demolishes their homes for lack of permits.
The Bedouin community in the Negev desert has a long history, with many residents refusing resettlement in cities after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The recent demolition has reignited tensions and highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by the Bedouins in Israeli society. Residents like Abu Asa continue to seek a fair resolution, hoping for a better future for their community.