Jewish Squatters Protest West Bank Evacuation

As Israel moves closer to an evacuation of the West Bank, hundreds of Jewish protesters barricaded themselves in Hebron's market today, Haaretz reports, using barbed wire, oil drums, and burning tires. Police evicted two families as teenagers on rooftops lobbed rocks, eggs, and light bulbs at forces trying to break up the rally. At least 15 people were hurt.

The Hebron Jewish committee, which organized the protest, said it would continue working to return Jewish settlers to the market through nonviolence. Meanwhile, 12 soldiers were dismissed from duty for refusing orders to participate in the evacuation. It was the largest military refusal since Israel left Gaza 2 years ago. (More West Bank stories.)