Israeli Forces Seize Water Networks Serving Farmers in Northern Jordan Valley.

JERUSALEM: Israeli occupation forces today seized water networks belonging to Palestinian farmers in Khirbet al-Deir in the northern Jordan Valley. The confiscation of these vital resources has impacted the agricultural activities in the region, raising concerns among local farmers and community leaders. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the head of the Ein al-Bayda village council, Omar Fuqaha, reported that the occupation forces seized four water networks. These networks, located on several springs in Khirbet al-Deir, belong to Muhammad Fayez Daraghmeh and are essential for irrigating crops in the area. The actions have disrupted the water supply for local agriculture, affecting the livelihoods of farmers who depend on these resources for their crops. In a related context, Muhammad Sawafta, a farmer in al-Deir, stated that the occupation also seized water pumps and solar energy systems used to operate those pumps. This has left approximately 600 dunums of land, planted with grapes and corn, without a critical water source. The loss of these resources poses a significant threat to the agricultural output and economic stability of the farming community in the region. It is worth noting that Khirbet al-Deir is one of the border areas that citizens exploit to cultivate its lands, taking advantage of the presence of natural springs. The region has been a focal point of contention, as evidenced by incidents last year when colonists, under the protection of the occupation army, seized water networks from citizens in the area. The recurring nature of these incidents highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinian farmers in securing essential resources for their agricultural activities.