RAMALLAH, January 25, 2011 (WAFA) – The Israeli High Court Monday issued a temporary order to cease construction of five buildings in the Jewish settlement of Beit El, near Ramallah, on privately owned Palestinian land.

The landowners petitioned the court through the Israeli human rights organization Yesh Din.

The court ordered companies to refrain from providing services to the buildings in question.

The court also issued an interlocutory order for the government to explain why it is not implementing the final demolition order against these buildings.

According to Yesh Din, the construction of the buildings was carried out illegally.

“There were no building permits issued, nor was a valid plan approved, and a demolition order has already been issued,” said the organization.

The construction is taking place on privately-owned Palestinian land, which was seized years ago for military reasons. However, the buildings erected were clearly meant for housing and serve no military purpose, said Yesh Din.

 M.N./F.J.