'This is our sky': Palestinians fly kites in defiance of Israeli settlers in West Bank
Summary
Every summer since 2009, Palestinians from the village of Burin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank hold a kite festival on land partly taken by a nearby Israeli settlement. The festival is mainly for children but also sends a message that the land and sky belong to the Palestinian residents despite the ongoing conflict and settler violence.Key Facts
- The kite festival takes place on a hill near Burin, a Palestinian village surrounded by Israeli settlements since 1983.
- Israeli settlements like Har Bracha on this land are considered illegal under international law.
- The festival includes families and children flying kites in Palestinian flag colors as an act of peaceful protest.
- Residents say the event is also a message against settler attacks and land confiscation.
- Since 2008, the UN has reported attacks and violence from settlers in the area, which increased after the Gaza war began in October 2023.
- Some villagers have faced violence, including property damage and fear of settler attacks, which sometimes limits their participation.
- The festival provides a brief moment of joy and normalcy for the community amidst ongoing hardship.
- Organizers express a strong hope to continue the festival and reinforce their connection to their land.
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