Eviction Orders in Silwan: The Struggle of Palestinian Families Against Israeli Settler Takeover

In the Batn al-Hawa neighborhood of Silwan, East Jerusalem, approximately 40 Palestinian families face eviction following a ruling by the Israeli Supreme Court in December 2025. This decision favored Ateret Cohanim, an Israeli settler organization that has been claiming Palestinian properties in the area since 2015. The legal basis for these claims stems from a 1970 Israeli law allowing the reclamation of properties owned by Jews before 1948, which Ateret Cohanim has utilized to assert ownership over land historically inhabited by Palestinian families.

A Palestinian neighborhood’s last stand against Israeli settler takeover in Jerusalem

Kayed Rajabi, a resident of Silwan, articulated the emotional toll of the eviction orders, stating, “They want to force me out of the house I was born in.” His family has lived in Silwan since 1967, after being displaced from their original home in Jerusalem's Old City. Rajabi's family, along with others, has received notices to vacate their homes, with some families already expelled. The situation has created a climate of uncertainty, as families await enforcement of the eviction orders, which could occur at any moment.

A Palestinian neighborhood’s last stand against Israeli settler takeover in Jerusalem

The Palestinian families of Silwan have engaged in a protracted legal battle against the eviction orders, appealing the Israeli court's decisions for nearly a decade. Despite their efforts, the Supreme Court's ruling has left them with little recourse. Rajabi noted that many families are now searching for alternative housing in a market where rental prices are prohibitively high, further complicating their situation.

The presence of Israeli settlers in Silwan has transformed the neighborhood's landscape. Settlers have reportedly acquired around 40 buildings since 2004, often through forced evictions. Rajabi described how the dynamics of the community have shifted, stating that settlers view Palestinian residents as threats rather than neighbors. This has led to increased tensions, with reports of police involvement following complaints from settlers about Palestinian activities.

Critics of the Israeli government's actions, including Kayed Rajabi and community activist Ameer Maragha, argue that the evictions are part of a broader strategy to undermine Palestinian presence in Jerusalem. Maragha emphasized the lack of support for Palestinian families facing displacement, stating, “We have done all we can to defend our existence here with very little support from anybody.” Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have openly stated their intentions to solidify Jewish claims to the area, further exacerbating tensions.

While Ateret Cohanim has offered financial compensation to some families for their properties, many have refused, viewing the offers as unacceptable. Rajabi recounted an instance where the organization proposed a blank check for his home, which he declined, asserting, “I wouldn't sell them even a grain of soil.” The Israeli government maintains that settlement activities are vital for national security, despite international calls to halt such actions.

As the situation in Silwan continues to evolve, the Palestinian families face an uncertain future amid increasing settler presence and legal challenges. The ongoing struggle highlights the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian relations, particularly in contested areas like East Jerusalem. The residents of Silwan remain determined to resist displacement, holding onto their homes and heritage despite the mounting pressures they face.

A Palestinian neighborhood’s last stand against Israeli settler takeover in Jerusalem