Arabs break through security barrier
Arabs break through security barrierScreenshot

Dozens of Palestinian Authority Arabs on Tuesday created a hole through the security barrier that runs between the Arab village of Abu Dis and Jerusalem.

The Arabs said that IDF forces who were stationed nearby dispersed them using tear gas and stun grenades.

A similar incident took place two months ago, when dozens of Arab men held a protest against the security barrier, taking large hammers and creating a gaping hole in the wall. Several men used the hole to enter Jerusalem without going through a security checkpoint.

That protest was part of the “Nakba Day” events in which Arabs mourn the creation of the state of Israel. "Nakba" means catastrophe.

The separation barrier was designed to protect Israeli communities from terrorism originating in Palestinian Authority-controlled Arab cities in Judea and Samaria. It was intended to run through much of Judea and Samaria. Construction on the barrier was frozen for years due to budget constraints, but is scheduled to restart this year.

The barrier has faced opposition from both PA Arabs and from some Israelis in Judea and Samaria, who say it splits their communities. Other Israelis support the barrier, saying it prevents terrorist murders. Those opposing the barrier claim that the reduction in terrorism is due to the IDF's returning to areas in Judea and Samaria that it had left because of the Oslo Accords.