We know that we have a long battle ahead against the Israeli Authorities, but we will fight very hard and use all means available to us to save the homes of our relative’s and friends. The Israeli authorities are extremely careful when issuing orders. It is common for us to receive only verbal decisions, thereby ensuring that at a future date they can rescind on any previous orders they have passed.

October 9, 2002: The lawyer representing the families whose homes are threatened with demolition, Jawad Bulos, met with the Mayor, Fuad Kokaly, and representatives of Beit Sahour citizens involved in the case.

Mr. Bulos informed us of the actions taken by him in this matter and the response of the Supreme Court. On October 6, 2002 the Supreme Court, presided over by Judge Brokatshah, heard the objections to the demolition order. The following decision was made: In response to the objection filed on behalf of Beit Sahour residents, an injunction order was issued to temporarily halt the demolitions. The Israeli government is required to provide substantiation for their orders within 5 days. There will be a further 30 day period where all evidence presented to the court will be examined before a final decision is made.

The Municipality of Beit Sahour is preparing a detailed file containing proof of orders previously issued by the Israeli authorities concerning the jurisdiction of the land. Based on a map issued and signed by the Israeli Authorities in 1975, order number 418, the borders of the district are clearly marked and shows that the land in dispute falls within the municipal boundary of Beit Sahour.

We know that we have a long battle ahead against the Israeli Authorities, but we will fight very hard and use all means available to us to save the homes of our relative’s and friends. The Israeli authorities are extremely careful when issuing orders. It is common for us to receive only verbal decisions, thereby ensuring that at a future date they can rescind on any previous orders they have passed.

We know that there are many officials concerned with this case, particularly form the consulates, and we urge you to continue with your efforts. The lawyer is more than happy to discuss the case with any interested party.

The Community has set up a tent for solidarity supporters to come and share our struggle to fight against the colonist policies of Israel and together to prevent any further home demolitions and plunder of our land.

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Suzan Sahori
International Public Relations Officer
Beit Sahour Municipality
Beit Sahour
Tel:00972-2-3666/7 or 00972-2-2774111
Direct line: 00972-2-277-3830
Fax: 00972-2-2773520
https://www.beitsahourmunicipality.com