The chief judge of the Palestinian Authority has reminded Arabs that they face death if caught selling homes to Jews. The offense is considered “high treason,” according to PA judge Sheik Tayseer Rajab Tamimi. Several Arabs have been executed, often without trial, for selling their homes to Jews.

The sales usually are concluded through intermediaries intended to cover the intentions of the original seller. Many homes and property have been sold but remain occupied by Arabs, waiting for an advantageous time to leave. The latest reported sale took place on Har HaZeitim (Mount of Olives) in Jerusalem.