The Hebron Jewish community is planning a protest march this week as residents wish to move into the Beit HaMachpelah and Beit HaShalom, two buildings which they explain were purchased, yet they are barred from entering. Hebron officials feel that the decision to oust them was politically motivated because the buildings were acquired legally and there is no justification for barring them from entering, at least not based on legal grounds.

The protest march is planned for Tuesday, 4 Shevat 5773, beginning from the Kiryat Arba Local Council building to Beit HaMachpelah. Kiryat Arba Chief Rabbi HaGaon HaRav Dov Lior Shlita is expected to address the event together with the local council leader, Malachi Levinger.

Community officials explain that despite the fact they have the documentation to prove their legal purchase of the properties, they are barred from entering. Just a few months ago, after years of legal proceedings, the Jerusalem District Court ruled the Jewish purchase of Beit HaMachpelah was legal. The court ruled the Arab seller lied in his testimony, and ordered the building returned to the Jewish community within 30 days.

The Arab petitioners announced plans to appeal to the High Court of Justice, resulting in the district court ordering a delay on handing over the building pending the outcome of the appeal.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)