Palestinians Living a Cave Life in Southern Gaza Cling to their Lands
(Arab World Press) - While Palestinians living in rural communities in the West Bank accuse Israel of seeking to confiscate their lands and impose restrictions on them, they have returned to the lifestyle of their forefathers, opting to live in caves rather than leave their land.
In a number of caves between the villages of al-Mafqara and At-Tuwani in the area of Masafer Yatta, southern West Bank, several families live, relying on farming and herding sheep.
Residents in the area say Israeli measures targeting them have escalated over the past few months since the war on the Gaza Strip began on October 7.
In one cave, the family of Mohamed al-Ammour, consisting of 13 people, lives after the man decided to relinquish city life and return to caves, resolved to cling to his lands.
Speaking about his brother’s family, Fouad al-Ammour said, “This is the family of Mohamed al-Ammour, my brother, who applied the rule that says, “abandon your palace and return to the tent.” He used to live with our extended family in the city of Yatta, but recently came to our lands here and wanted to invest in their agriculture.”
Fouad explained, “This community is located between the villages of al-Mafqara and At-Tuwani. It is an extension and a link to the rest of the Masafer Yatta collection of hamlets. This community is inhabited by six large families, meaning about 50 or 60 people.”
Fatima al-Ammour, who lives with her husband and children in the cave, said, “Here in Ar-Rakeez, Masafer Yatta, we came to live, reclaim and cultivate the lands, raise cattle and bring up our children. We will not leave this place.”