Friend --
I’m writing to you from the South Hebron Hills, just a few miles away from Masafer Yatta in the occupied West Bank.
I’m here in the region as part of a week-long delegation for Members of Congress and J Street leaders to Israel and the Palestinian Territory to learn about the realities facing both peoples, about those on both sides struggling for a better future, and about what the US government can and must do to help.
Today, our delegation came to the South Hebron Hills to see conditions on the ground, meet with local residents, and speak with courageous Israeli and Palestinian peace activists. We heard how this area has been ground zero for a spate of violent settler attacks over recent years -- and is now facing one of the largest mass demolition projects in decades.
An Israeli High Court decision early this year greenlighted the mass eviction of over 1,000 Palestinians living in the area. Authorities’ current plan to displace and demolish communities in Masafer Yatta, championed by the right-wing settlement movement, would leave these Palestinian families homeless. And it would strike yet another blow to hopes for a peaceful two-state solution -- the only outcome that can possibly safeguard the rights and aspirations of both peoples.
As we heard today from heartbroken local activists, some demolitions have already taken place. But it’s not too late to stop this disastrous plan from going forward.
We’re here because we believe it’s vital that US lawmakers see this painful reality for themselves -- and because it’s vital that our government act to push back against the settlement movement, protect these communities, and preserve Israel’s future as a democratic homeland for the Jewish people.
Tell the Biden Administration:
Act to Prevent Demolitions in Masafer Yatta
✍️ Add your name
As Israel’s strongest partner and a global superpower, the US has critical influence when it comes to making the situation better -- or enabling it to get worse.
That’s why some of the Israeli activists we’ve met have called on Members of Congress and the Biden administration to voice stronger, clearer opposition to harmful settlement expansion and demolition projects.
They know that strong American leadership and influence has the capacity to truly impact conditions on the ground, protect families and disrupt the cycle of endless conflict and deepening occupation. Determined US action is one of the few factors that’s proven to stop or slow demolitions and settlements -- I’ve seen that impact myself.
Eighty-three Members of Congress have already publicly urged the Biden administration to act on Masafer Yatta -- but we’re still waiting to see the decisive action that’s needed.
That’s why we’re asking for your support to call on President Biden and his administration to meaningfully push back against the demolitions in Masafer Yatta.
Tell the Biden Administration:
Act to Prevent Demolitions in Masafer Yatta
✍️ Add your name
For well over a decade, our movement has brought Members of Congress to Israel and the West Bank on balanced, in-depth trips designed to offer first-hand exposure to the challenging realities and systemic problems at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
I’m so proud of this work. So proud of all that we do to elevate the voices of the Israelis and Palestinians who deserve a better future. So proud of our advocacy for US leadership that advances our democratic values and hopes for peace.
We couldn’t do it without your support, so thank you, sincerely, for being a part of this movement -- and for taking action.
Yours,
Jeremy Ben Ami
President, J Street
