Israel demolished 181 Palestinian homes in east Jerusalem, says group

An Israeli rights group says Israel demolished a record number of Palestinian homes in annexed east Jerusalem last year.

Ir Amim, which closely tracks settlement activity and demolitions in the city, said on Wednesday that 181 homes were destroyed last year, in addition to dozens of other structures.

It said that more recently, Israel appears to have dropped a longstanding policy against demolishing homes during the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan, which began last weekend. It said a residential building and three apartments have been destroyed over the past week.

Rights groups say discriminatory policies make it nearly impossible for Palestinians to expand or redevelop their neighborhoods in east Jerusalem, forcing many to build without permits. Israel also demolishes the family homes of Palestinians who carry out attacks.

Associated Press