Jerusalem, September 15 (QNA) - Israeli colonists have established a new settlement outpost on Palestinian-owned land in Beit Iksa, northwest of occupied Jerusalem, the second such outpost established in the village in four months, Palestinian sources said Tuesday.
The colonists, protected by Israeli occupation forces, began installing structures and equipment in the Khirbet Al-Alawneh area of the village, in a move Palestinian sources said was aimed at establishing a permanent presence and consolidating control over the land.
The new outpost has raised fears of further expansion and the seizure of additional Palestinian-owned land, particularly in areas surrounding the village, the sources said.
The development comes about four months after colonists established another outpost on Beit Iksa land, highlighting an escalation in colonial activity in the village and efforts to gradually take control of additional Palestinian territory.
Palestinian residents fear the expansion could further restrict their access to their land, while roads and other infrastructure could be built to serve the outpost and link it to nearby areas under Israeli control.
Beit Iksa has long faced tight movement restrictions imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities, including controls at the village entrance and restrictions on residents' access to parts of their land. The restrictions have hindered residents' ability to cultivate and use their agricultural land.
Israeli colonists have intensified attacks on Palestinian communities and residents in recent months, with homes, vehicles and trees damaged or set on fire in several communities. (QNA)