Bedouins living in Al-Badiah in the Negev Desert are wandering among the ruins of their homes after the demolition of 80 buildings, which have been classified as illegal structures by Israeli authorities. This demolition took place on Monday under conditions where residents of the area say they have nowhere else to go.
Impact of the Demolitions on Al-Badiah Residents
Mohammed Abu Wadi, 65, a resident of this village, expressed his despair, saying: "When night falls, where are we supposed to sleep? Under the open sky or in the moonlight?" These demolitions have not only affected the living conditions of the residents but also pose a serious threat to the Bedouin community, which is traditionally semi-nomadic.
According to statistics, about 300,000 Bedouins live in the Negev area, with around 30 percent residing in villages like Al-Badiah that are not recognized by the government. These villages lack basic services, and their residents face serious challenges in trying to maintain their lands.
The Role of Israeli Authorities in the Demolitions
Talal Al-Karnawi, the mayor of the nearby city of Rahat, announced that Israeli bulldozers have demolished a mosque and 80 residential homes that housed about 400 people, including 250 students aged 6 to 18. Adnan Abu Wadi, another resident of Al-Badiah, stated that this village received demolition orders from Israeli authorities six years ago.
The residents' lawyer, Eli Ben Zaken, stated that these demolitions are part of broader efforts by far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli to increase the number of demolitions. He added: "After the demolition, nothing will be built on this land. This land will be devoid of any projects, and its residents have lived there since before the establishment of the country."
The continued demolitions in Al-Badiah village are interpreted by some residents as an electoral maneuver ahead of the upcoming elections on October 27. They believe these actions are aimed at appeasing voters and demonstrating political power.
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