East Jerusalem Demolitions Rise 70 Percent in 2025

Israeli authorities demolished more than 260 homes and structures in east Jerusalem during 2025, a 70 percent increase from three years earlier. At least 116 demolitions have taken place so far this year. Two neighborhoods near the Old City recorded the highest eviction rates in decades.

Palestinians in annexed east Jerusalem must apply for Israeli citizenship, a process most decline. Housing permits are issued by Israel's Parliament. Last year nearly 9,000 permits went to Jewish residents and fewer than 700 to Palestinians. Israeli officials state the gap exists because Palestinians rarely apply.

Palestinians who build without permits face demolition orders. One resident has fought demolition orders in court since 2004.

In the al-Bustan area, authorities demolished a home in February 2024 after giving residents minutes to gather belongings. About 1,500 Palestinians there remain at risk. The Jerusalem municipality said structures lacked permits and that a park and parking lot will replace them.

In the Batan al-Hawah neighborhood, 15 families were evicted in March. Israel's Supreme Court upheld eviction orders after more than a decade of litigation. Settler groups have moved into properties previously held by Palestinians. One evicted resident said he walks past his former home daily.

Another resident stated he must leave by July and has no alternative housing in Jerusalem.