Statement by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, Maxwell Gaylard, on evictions in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Beit Hanina

The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, Maxwell Gaylard, has condemned the eviction of two Palestinian families from their adjacent homes in the East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Beit Hanina. Their eviction earlier today follows a court case brought against the families by an Israeli association, which reportedly plans to build housing units on the property.

Commenting on the incident Mr. Gaylard said, “Evictions of Palestinians from their homes and properties in occupied territory contravene international law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention, and should cease.”

The An Natsha family are registered refugees with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), who have reported previous harassment and intimidation by settler groups. The property has now been sealed, and the personal belongings of the families have been removed.