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The cost of occupation: A closer look at life in the West Bank

February 7, 2024 by Sample Name

The West Bank, a land marked by decades of political conflict, remains one of the most hotly contested regions in the Middle East. Home to nearly three million Palestinians and hundreds of thousands of Israeli settlers, the area endures a complex reality shaped by military occupation, economic struggles, and social division.

Economic Struggles

According to a 2023 report by the World Bank, the West Bank’s economy is heavily restricted due to limited access to resources, trade barriers, and a fragmented infrastructure. Unemployment hovers around 15%, with youth unemployment reaching a staggering 26%. In contrast, Israeli settlements, considered illegal under international law, continue to expand, benefiting from government subsidies and modern infrastructure.

Palestinian businessman Ahmad Younis shared his frustration:

“Every checkpoint adds hours to deliveries. It raises costs, and in some cases, we lose business entirely.”

The economic disparity is evident. A 2022 United Nations report estimated that restrictions on Palestinian economic activity have cost the economy over $50 billion in the past two decades.

Daily Life Under Military Presence

Life in the West Bank is deeply affected by the presence of over 600 military checkpoints, roadblocks, and the separation barrier. These obstacles disrupt daily life, limiting Palestinians’ freedom of movement for work, education, and healthcare.

A study published by the Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem found that West Bank residents spend an average of two hours a day navigating checkpoints. This affects not only productivity but also mental health.

“My son missed an entire semester of university because the road to his campus was blocked for months,” shared Samira Halabi, a resident of Hebron.

Housing and Settlements

The expansion of Israeli settlements has led to frequent demolitions of Palestinian homes, often justified by the Israeli government as being built without permits — permits that are notoriously difficult for Palestinians to obtain. According to the Israeli NGO Peace Now, more than 1,000 Palestinian homes and structures were demolished in 2023 alone.

Housing and Settlements

The international community remains divided. While the United Nations and the European Union have repeatedly condemned settlement expansions, diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have stalled. Meanwhile, humanitarian aid continues to flow, but many argue that long-term peace requires addressing the root causes of the occupation.

“It’s not just about borders; it’s about dignity, freedom, and the right to live without fear,” said political analyst Leila Nasser.

As the world watches, the West Bank’s future remains uncertain, with the cost of occupation weighing heavily on both its people and prospects for peace.

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