Asger Risom
Palestinians in Sinjil say their town has become a “big prison” as Israeli forces surround it with fencing and roadblocks.
Palestinians in Sinjil say their town has become a “big prison” as Israeli forces surround it with fencing and roadblocks.
Only One Exit as Sinjil Is Fenced In
Sinjil, a Palestinian town of 8,000, now has just one guarded entrance. Israeli forces sealed the rest with metal fencing and roadblocks, citing security concerns. Locals say it cuts off access to land and livelihoods.
A Drastic Escalation in the West Bank
Since the Gaza war began, Israel has expanded its checkpoint and barrier system across the West Bank. Palestinian towns like Sinjil are increasingly isolated, with some residents describing life under siege.
Israel Cites Security, Palestinians See Confinement
The Israeli military says the fence around Sinjil protects a nearby highway from attacks. But residents and officials argue it effectively traps people and severs them from 2,000 acres of private land.
Tensions Rise Over Settler Security
Israel maintains the restrictions are necessary due to past attacks on settlers. Local settler leaders say removing controls would invite violence. Palestinians, however, say such claims are used to justify repression.
Daily Life Disrupted
Routine trips now take hours as residents face long detours and unpredictable checkpoint delays. The increased difficulty in commuting has hurt livelihoods and frayed family ties.
Critics Warn of Blowback
The Palestinian Authority warns that Israel’s tactics risk fueling radicalization. With movement restricted and jobs lost, frustration is mounting in towns like Sinjil.
A Bigger Strategy at Play?
With far-right voices growing in Israel’s government, some fear the fencing of Sinjil reflects a wider goal of annexing the West Bank. The future for Palestinian communities remains uncertain.
