Israeli soldiers observed from a nearby hill and fired tear gas in the area, causing several children to suffer breathing difficulties.
The illegal settlers claimed the barrier was installed “to protect the residents,” in coordination with Israeli authorities. However, Khalil Hathaleen, head of the Umm al-Khair council, said the alternative route is too dangerous, as it runs just 300 meters from the settlement fence.
Human rights groups discussed the fence is part of a broader, coordinated effort by illegal settlers and the Israeli forces to intimidate Palestinians and pressure them off their land
