Wadi Al-Makhrour, a lush valley nestled in the Bethlehem area, is not just a geographical marvel; it is a symbol of resilience, cultural heritage, and environmental significance. This August, as we gear up for a series of activities dedicated to this precious landscape, we invite our community and supporters to join us in shining a spotlight on Wadi Al-Makhrour and raising awareness about the threats it faces.

The Importance of Wadi Al-Makhrour

Wadi Al-Makhrour is a vital part of the natural and cultural heritage of the Bethlehem area. Its rolling hills, fertile lands, and rich biodiversity make it a haven for local flora and fauna. For generations, the valley has been a source of sustenance for the communities around Bethlehem, providing fertile soil for agriculture, a natural habitat for wildlife, and a serene landscape that embodies the beauty of Palestine.

But Wadi Al-Makhrour is more than just a beautiful landscape. It holds deep cultural significance, with ancient terraces, olive groves, and historic sites that tell the story of the people who have lived and thrived in this region for millennia. Recognized by UNESCO as a part of the “Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir”, this valley is a living testament to the resilience of the Palestinian people and their deep connection to the land.

For further information on the UNESCO listing, read here.

The Threat of Nahal Heletz Settlement Plans

However, this treasured landscape is under imminent threat. The Israeli government recently approved the establishment of the Nahal Heletz settlement, a new settlement that directly impacts Wadi Al-Makhrour . The proposed plan aims to carve out large portions of Wadi Al-Makhrour, jeopardizing not only its ecological integrity but also the livelihoods of the communities that depend on it. This settlement expansion would lead to the destruction of agricultural land, the displacement of families, and the erasure of a critical part of Palestine’s cultural and natural heritage.

The Nahal Heletz settlement is part of a broader push to establish new settlements in the West Bank, which Peace Now has called “de facto annexation” of the area. The implications are far-reaching, with the potential to undermine peace efforts and further destabilize the region.

HLT’s Commitment: #alleyesonmakhrour

At Holy Land Trust, we recognize the urgent need to protect Wadi Al-Makhrour from these threats. Our September activities, under the banner of #alleyesonmakhrour, will be dedicated to raising awareness, mobilizing support, and taking action to safeguard this irreplaceable valley.

Throughout September, we will be organizing a series of events, workshops, and campaigns focused on Wadi Al-Makhrour. These activities aim to educate our community about the importance of this valley, the dangers posed by the Nahal Heletz settlement plans, and the steps we can take to protect it.

Our plans include:

Guided Tours: Experience the beauty and significance of Wadi Al-Makhrour firsthand through guided tours led by local experts. Learn about the valley’s history, ecology, and the threats it faces.

Community Workshops: Join us for workshops that bring together local residents, activists, and environmentalists to discuss strategies for protecting Wadi Al-Makhrour and preserving our shared heritage.

Art and Culture Events: Celebrate the cultural heritage of Wadi Al-Makhrour through art exhibitions, poetry readings, and musical performances that highlight the valley’s unique identity.

Advocacy Campaigns: Participate in our advocacy efforts aimed at halting the Nahal Heletz settlement expansion. We will be launching social media campaigns, petitions, and letter-writing initiatives to ensure that the voices of the people of Bethlehem are heard.

How You Can Help

We cannot do this alone. We need your support to protect Wadi Al-Makhrour.

Here’s how you can get involved:

Spread the Word: Use the hashtag #alleyesonmakhrour to raise awareness about the importance of Wadi Al-Makhrour and the threats it faces. Share our posts, join the conversation, and help us reach a wider audience.
Join Our Events: Participate in our September activities and show your support for Wadi Al-Makhrour. Whether it’s attending a workshop, joining a tour, or supporting our advocacy efforts, your involvement makes a difference.

Donate: Your contributions help us continue our work to protect Wadi Al-Makhrour and support the communities that depend on it. Every donation, big or small, helps us take a stand against the threats facing this vital valley.

Conclusion

Wadi Al-Makhrour is more than just a valley – it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring connection between the people of Bethlehem and their land. As we dedicate our September activities to this critical cause, we ask you to stand with us in protecting Wadi Al-Makhrour for future generations. Together, we can ensure that this beautiful valley remains a thriving part of Palestine’s natural and cultural heritage.

For more detailed information about the Nahal Heletz settlement plans, you can read here, here, and here.

Stay tuned for more updates and thank you for your unwavering support.

Holy Land Trust Team