In the heart of Hebron’s Old City, Palestinian shopkeepers are facing a new threat as illegal Israeli settlers erect prefabricated structures on the rooftops of commercial buildings. The latest expansion, announced on October 29, will add 20 settler units above existing shops, including the long‑standing tailoring shop of Yusef al‑Khatib.
Al‑Khatib, 65, inherited the shop from his father, who began working there 80 years ago. He has spent his entire life in the same building, helping his children obtain an education through the business’s income. “This shop is my livelihood and the livelihood of my family,” he told Al Jazeera.
The Old City has been home to a settler presence since 1978, but the recent rooftop outposts have intensified pressure on Palestinian residents. About 500 settlers now live in the Old City, a number that is illegal under international law. Activists fear that the new structures will alter the area’s Palestinian character and force more residents to leave.
Other shop owners echo al‑Khatib’s concerns. Bader al‑Daour al‑Tamimi, who runs a shop on Shalala Street, warns that the rooftop outpost could eventually cut off access to his business. “Our presence here is not just about business; this is the home of our fathers and grandfathers, and part of our history,” he said.
Despite the uncertainty, al‑Khatib remains determined to keep his shop open. “It is an inheritance I received from my father, and I will continue to protect it and hold on to it, despite my fear of the settlers on the rooftop above the shop and the threats we may face,” he said.
Source: Al Jazeera
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Editorial note: This is an original news report prepared from the attributed source material with AI assistance. It is not a reproduction or translation of the original article.
