Israel Razes 3 Factories in Gaza Strip

GAZA STRIP, Palestine, May 24, 2003, IPC+ WAFA-- Israeli occupation forces (IOF) bulldozed late Friday three bricks factories in two places east Gaza City and Beit Hanoun City.

Israeli occupation forces, backed by a number of tanks and two military bulldozers entered the city of Beit Hanoun bulldozed two factories, one of which owned by Misleh family that supports about 200 citizens, eyewitnesses said.

As well, IOF dug late Friday a wide trench near Beit Lahia cross road that leads to Beit Hanoun City, WAFA reported.

Palestinian sources affirmed that IOF dug a trench and placed sand barriers at the main street leading to Beit Hanoun, hindering movement from into the City.

This Israeli continued aggression on the city coincides with American and international efforts to resume the stalled peace talks between the Palestinian and Israeli sides.

Meanwhile, vast areas of arable lands were bulldozed late Friday night by Israeli two Israeli military bulldozers in the Al-Zitoun neighborhood east of Gaza City.

The bulldozers also destroyed a bricks factory located in the same area.

Eyewitnesses said, IOF supported by tens of military vehicles, three military bulldozers incurred into the Al Zaitoon area and commenced bulldozing the Al- Ameer Factory and Al-Husani land.

The Israeli forces first bulldozed the factory walls and vandalized the factory’s machines and equipment. The total bulk of losses is equal to 200,000 US $, Adham Ryan, one of the factory owners said.

In Nablus district, five Palestinian civilians were wounded late Friday by Israeli occupation forces in ‘Bita’ Village.

The head of the village’s council Mr. Wasef Mu’ala said that Israeli occupation forces backed by a number of military vehicles stormed the village under heavy shooting, due to which five residents were wounded.

In Tulkarim City, Israeli occupation forces invaded early morning Tulkarim city and its refugee camp, and launched a campaign of house-to-house search, after imposing a tight curfew, IPC correspondent said.

Earlier Friday, Israeli occupation forces swept into Jenin City under heavy machinegun fire targeting Palestinian houses, and arrested a number of civilians.

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