Israel says the buildings were built illegally too close toits West Bank separation barrier

Israeli work crews have begun demolishing dozens ofPalestinian homes in an east Jerusalem neighbourhood. Monday’s demolitions capa years-long legal battle over the buildings, which straddle the city and theoccupied West Bank. Israel says the buildings were built illegally too close toits West Bank separation barrier. Residents say they have nowhere to build andgetting permits to build homes legally is impossible.The demolitions, whichbegan overnight, have already destroyed several of the more than 20 apartmentsin the buildings.

The United Nations estimates about 20 people are believed tolive in the buildings and some 350 property owners who have not yet moved inwill be affected.