BETHLEHEM, West Bank /PNN/ Palestinian officials in the town of Beit Fajjar are urging European and international representatives to intervene to end the ongoing closure of the town’s main entrance, calling for immediate action and inviting foreign delegations to visit and witness the impact firsthand.
The appeal comes as the main access road to Beit Fajjar has remained closed since the outbreak of the war on Oct. 7, a move local officials say has severely disrupted daily life, strained the local economy and restricted movement for thousands of residents.
Mayor Sameh Thawabteh said the municipality is preparing to launch a local and international campaign to pressure for the reopening of the entrance, describing the closure as “unacceptable” given its widespread consequences.
“The continued closure affects every aspect of life — from rising financial and physical burdens on residents to delays in essential services, and significant damage to the town’s economy, particularly the stone and marble industry,” Thawabteh said in an interview with PNN.
He added that the municipality has been in contact with Palestinian authorities since taking office, urging them to press Israeli officials to reopen the crossing, expressing hope for progress in the near future.
Plans for development, with health sector a priority
Thawabteh said the municipal council has developed a multi-sector plan aimed at improving conditions in Beit Fajjar, focusing on health, education, environment and economic development.
He noted that the town’s only health clinic suffers from overcrowding and operates only during official working hours, with no hospital or fully equipped medical center available.
To address this, the municipality has coordinated with the Bethlehem Directorate of Health to extend clinic hours into the evening and is working toward establishing a medical center that would provide broader services.
Public participation at the core of municipal planning
Thawabteh emphasized that the municipality is adopting a participatory approach, encouraging residents to contribute ideas and proposals. Plans are underway to hold a broad meeting with local doctors and nurses to discuss improvements to the healthcare sector.
He added that the council is committed to transparency, using social media platforms to engage residents and gather feedback, stressing that “decisions will reflect the will of the people of Beit Fajjar.”
The council has already held several public meetings within its first 40 days in office as part of this approach.
Education and infrastructure challenges
On education, Thawabteh said overcrowding in the town’s five schools remains a major concern. The municipality is seeking to purchase land for the construction of a new school, though he acknowledged the project will take time.
Economic strain and support for key industries
The mayor highlighted the economic difficulties facing the town, particularly in the stone and marble sector, which has been impacted by restrictions affecting exports.
He said the municipality plans to meet with key economic stakeholders to explore ways to support and revive the sector, amid broader economic slowdown and rising unemployment.
Environmental initiatives and future projects
Thawabteh also pointed to ongoing environmental initiatives, including tree-planting projects carried out in cooperation with the Bethlehem governorate. The municipality plans to expand green spaces as part of efforts to improve environmental conditions.
He outlined upcoming infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Abu Anwar roundabout, improvements to town entrances, and upgrades to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities.
Plans are also in place to develop public parks, including one in the Shaab al-Teena area, with additional locations under consideration.
Market organization and urban development
The municipality is also working to rehabilitate the town center, upgrade roads and improve commercial areas to reflect what officials described as a more organized and modern urban environment.
Partnership with media
In closing, Thawabteh stressed the importance of cooperation with the media, noting an agreement with the Palestine News Network (PNN) to develop an annual media plan aimed at strengthening communication and promoting municipal services locally and internationally.
