Barrier threatens Bethlehem's future

[Quetzal]

Barrier threatens Bethlehem's future

With Israel's controversial separation barrier expanding south, Bethlehem is next and the mayor says he fears for the future of the town.

The barrier will eventually ring Bethlehem on three sides and slice off about 2000 hectares of farmland, Mayor Hanna Nasir said. Maps provided by Israeli authorities confirmed his description.

"This wall will stop all kinds of natural growth," Nasir said, noting that 70% of the work force depend on tourism. "This is a serious blow to the future of Bethlehem."

Israel's Supreme Court is weighing whether to approve one controversial section, which would ring at least five Bethlehem homes, requiring Palestinian residents to apply for Israeli permits to enter and leave the enclave.

more...

Barrier threatens Bethlehem's future

[number6]

1. controversial separation barrier

very ...

[Violet_Crumble]

2. It's already obtaining results...

From the article:

"In Qalqiliya, a West Bank town already enclosed, thousands of residents fled because of growing unemployment."

Anyone want to take a guess on how successful these residents would be if they tried to return to their homes? The purpose of the barrier has been to make life intolerable for those affected by it, and it seems to be achieving that amazingly well....

Violet...