In the occupied West Bank, near Tubas in the north, military road construction has damaged the water infrastructure of agricultural lands. Farmers describe their fields drying up, animals suffering from lack of water, and life in the area becoming increasingly difficult.
According to local farmers, the Israeli army is building a 22-kilometer military road connecting the villages of Ein Shibli and Tayasir. During the construction, pipes that irrigate the lands and water the animals were damaged.
Farmers Report Obstacles Accessing Their Lands
Farmers say the army frequently blocks their access to their lands and has installed a metal barrier restricting passage. This has made not only irrigation but also regular access to the lands difficult.
Saleh Hamdan explained that since February they have been facing water shortages, unable to irrigate their crops or reach their lands. Showing dried grape clusters, Hamdan said that without water, farming cannot be sustained.
From the same area, Lofti Bani Odeh pointed out that the biggest problem is the inability to find water for the animals. According to Odeh, water supply to farmers was cut off when the army began the road work.
Damaged Pipes and Bulldozers Documented
An AFP reporter at the scene saw damaged irrigation pipes and bulldozers parked near a farmer’s land. The footage revealed that infrastructure damage is clearly felt on the ground in the area.
Another farmer, Dirgham Basharat, said those trying to reach their lands were detained, beaten, and humiliated by soldiers. Basharat expressed feeling like he was in prison because he cannot provide water and feed for his animals.
Israeli Army Cites Security Reasons
The Israeli army stated that the work in the area is part of a project responding to a clear security need. However, farmers argue that these measures only worsen their hardships.
According to a report by the National Bureau for the Defense of Land and Resistance to Settlement Activities affiliated with the Palestine Liberation Organization, military expropriation orders covering more than 1,000 dunams were issued in the area in December 2025. This area corresponds to about 100 hectares.
The road project, named "Scarlet Thread" by the army, was suspended by a temporary order from the Israeli Supreme Court at the end of January 2026. In March, the court allowed the project to resume citing "urgent security needs."
Agricultural production in the area has become increasingly fragile due to damage to water lines and movement restrictions, with farmers questioning whether they will be able to remain on their lands.
