Hebron tensions rise as settlers await eviction

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 12-04-2008 10:04

Tensions remain high in the West Bank city of Hebron as Jewish settlers and Palestinians clash with Israeli security forces.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is demanding Israel rein in the settlers, while the Israeli goverment says more forces can be sent in if needed.

A masked Palestinian youth kicks a burning tire in the West Bank city of Hebron during a protest against the occupation of a disputed house by Jewish settlers. (AFP/Hazem Bader)

Reports say Israeli forces are preparing to evict Jewish settlers from a disputed building. 13 families have been living there for a year and a half.

Settlers threw rocks at Israeli police, who returned fire with stun grenades.

The settlers have vowed to resist an Israeli court order that they leave the building they call "Peace House." Settlers insist the building was purchased legally from a Palestinian, but the seller has denied doing so.

The Palestinian President has called on the Israeli government to stop the violence in Hebron.

Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian President, said, "The Israeli government should understand that it's their duty to stop these gangs from attacking the Palestinians. They should take the responsibility to end this, or they will be responsible for these attacks."

Israeli security officials say they have the manpower to do so.

Avi Dichter, Israeli Minister for Int. Security, said, "But if it will be needed to bring more troops, in order to decrease violence in Hebron, we shall do it."

Hebron is home to approximately 650 Jewish settlers who live in fortified enclaves guarded by Israeli troops in the heart of a city of 180-thousand Palestinians.

Tensions have risen in the past week with the arrival of hundreds of supporters of the settlers, who've come to the enclave to try to prevent the evacuation.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei