Palestinians: Israel rerouting barrier by West Bank village, 2 1/2 years after court order
By Mohammed Daraghmeh, APThursday, February 11, 2010
Israel rerouting barrier near West Bank village
JERUSALEM — Palestinian officials say the Israeli military has begun work to reroute a flashpoint section of Israel’s West Bank separation barrier.
They say tracks have been laid down for a modified route near the village of Bilin, where weekly protests are held in opposition to the barrier.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter before official confirmation.
The Palestinians say the barrier is a land grab of territory they claim for their future state.
The Israeli Supreme Court ordered the government two and a half years ago to modify the route around Bilin.
Israel says it is building the barrier to keep out Palestinian attackers. Israeli defense officials did not immediately comment.
