New Israeli checkpoints tighten siege around Qusra homes on Ras al-Ain hill
Israeli forces installed three metal-barred roadblocks on Ras al-Ain hill in Qusra, further isolating homes already under a settler-led siege.
On Wednesday, Israeli troops erected three large yellow and orange metal gates on Ras al-Ain hill, sealing off the upper part of Qusra in the occupied West Bank. The installations sit at the entrances of homes, including that of Palestinian-American Loui Ridi, who has been confined to the village since mid-August, and near a house under construction. The checkpoints block a key road that connects Qusra with Ras al-Ain, Talfit and Jalud, effectively cutting off movement for villagers and access to farmland containing olive, almond and fig trees.
Settlers have also taken over a local water well, using it for their own needs. Residents, such as Abdel Hakim Wadi, fear the new barriers will make it impossible to reach their land even if the military-zone label is lifted, and they have appealed to the U.S. embassy and the broader international community for intervention.
Why it matters
The roadblocks deepen the isolation of Qusra residents, highlighting escalating tensions over land and movement in the West Bank.
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