Left MEPs in Hebron and Bethlehem: occupation must end now

On their second day in Palestine, GUE/NGL MEPs witnessed the reality of the occupation of the West Bank and met the Mayors and Governors of both Hebron and Bethlehem.

In Hebron they saw how partition is in place in the old city, with Palestinians having to contend with over 100 checkpoints and daily settler aggression. Many Palestinians no longer have direct access to their homes, with some having to clamber over rooftops to gain access.

In Bethlehem the MEPs discussed the stark contradictions between Israel’s actions and their stated aim of peace; last week Israel announced it would seize over 1000 acres of Palestinian land near Bethlehem, a clear divide and conquer strategy.

GUE/NGL MEP Younous Omarjee said: “The international community can’t stand by and say nothing, and in the EU, the only actor that could realistically bring about a new approach, many negative forces are blocking any form of progress. This is where citizen mobilization comes in. Widespread indignation can effect change and put pressure on governments to stop ignoring this occupation.”

Press contact:
Emily Macintosh +32 470 85 05 08
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