The Struggle for Al-Makhrour – A Family’s Fight for Justice

The story of the Al-Makhrour family in Beit Jala is one of perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering fight for justice. This land, which has been in the family for decades, is more than just property—it is a testament to their heritage and a symbol of their enduring connection to their roots.

Ramzi, the owner of the land in Al-Makhrour, has spent years defending his family’s claim to this precious piece of land. Despite numerous challenges, including legal battles and confrontations with settlers, Ramzi has remained steadfast in his commitment to protecting what rightfully belongs to his family.

The family’s troubles began in 2001 when Al-Makhrour Restaurant was established. Despite a demolition order in 2005, the family continued to build on the land, constructing a house in 2010. Although they faced multiple demolition orders, they persisted. In 2012, the restaurant was demolished but was soon rebuilt, standing as a symbol of the family’s determination.

Over the years, the family has fought tirelessly to obtain legal documentation for their home. They have navigated a complex and often unjust bureaucratic system, seeking licensing and permits to legitimize their claim. Despite these efforts, the Civil Administration refused to grant a building permit in 2016, citing engineering reasons but not challenging the family’s ownership.

The situation escalated in 2017 when Haminuta, a settler organization, claimed ownership of the land and joined the ongoing Supreme Court case. For years, the family battled against these unfounded claims, only to face further setbacks when their lawyer failed to properly challenge Haminuta’s assertions in the appropriate court.

In 2019, despite their efforts, the house was demolished due to the lack of a building permit. However, the family did not give up. They returned to court and, in 2023, succeeded in proving their ownership, with an official deed issued in their name.

But the struggle didn’t end there. On July 31st, 2024, Israeli settlers, with the support of the military, took over the family’s land in Al-Makhrour. According to the family, the eviction order used against them was illegal, as it was intended for a neighboring area, Wadi Heletz, not their home in Al-Makhrour. This critical detail underscores the ongoing legal and moral complexities of their case.

Ramzi, who has poured his life into protecting this land, now faces further displacement and injustice. However, the family is persistent in their resolve to stay on their land and reclaim their rights. Along with more than 150 supporters who are coming daily to show solidarity, the Kaisieh family is now camping on the edges of their land.

The family’s story, captured in a video (click here) , highlights the ongoing struggle of Palestinian families under occupation. The settlers’ actions and the military’s involvement have left the family in a state of uncertainty and despair.

We at Holy Land Trust stand with Ramzi and his family. Their story is not just about a legal battle—it is about the right to live on the land that has been theirs for generations. It is about resisting the forces that seek to erase their history and their future.

We call on our community and supporters to take action. This family needs our support to continue their fight against these injustices. If you are able to support the camp and its daily needs, please contact Holy Land Trust. We urge you to stand with them, amplify their voices, and support their struggle for justice.

Let us come together to ensure that the story of Al-Makhrour does not end in loss but in victory—a victory for justice, for heritage, and for the future of Palestine.

Thank you for your continued solidarity.