Government officials are calling on the residents of the Shomron community of Migron to pack and begin to move out as they deadline for their eviction draws near. Government officials are willing to send people to assist in packing, as was the case in the Ulpana neighborhood of Beit El but in Migron, the residents are uninterested. They feel that at the very least, they are not packing until the High Court of Justice hears their appeal, which is set for Tuesday, 10 Elul 5772.

Migron residents explain they purchased most of the area in question from the Arabs who claimed ownership and this is the basis of the appeal filed by 17 families with the High Court. In the interim, Migron families insist that they are not about to pack up and walk away willingly at this time. In addition, the temporary homes for the Migron residents at the nearby Psagot Winery site are not ready for them.

The cabinet appears to be siding with residents, looking for ways to bypass the High Court and provide them time. The state requested a three-month delay and the High Court granted two months. Working against residents is the state prosecutor, which is against the residents, signaling it feels the land purchases are not adequate and the residents are compelled to evacuate the community. State Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein is working against the cabinet position, trying to actualize the eviction of Migron in the coming days.

Cabinet officials state that they continue supporting the community’s residents but will abide by any ruling handed down by the High Court of Justice.

In line with the court’s last ruling, the extension which has prevented the expulsion runs out with Tuesday’s hearing.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)