Israel disperse anti-demolition protesters in West Bank

JERUSALEM – Israeli forces have dispersed several dozen Palestinians protesting the planned demolitions of homes in an east Jerusalem village.

About 50 Palestinians gathered Saturday at Sur Baher, which straddles Israel’s West Bank separation barrier, in solidarity with owners of homes close to the wall.

Witnesses say Israeli forces fired tear gas and stun grenades to end the rally.

Israel says the 10 buildings, located on the West Bank side of the barrier, were erected too close to the structure.

In June, Israel’s Supreme Court rejected a petition by residents to cancel the demolitions. The petition also called on Israel to grant building permits for Palestinian residents of east Jerusalem.

U.N. officials have urged Israel to halt the demolitions.