HEBRON, June 17, 2026 (WAFA) – Israeli forces on Wednesday began excavation and bulldozing works on Palestinian-owned lands in the Mount Tarousa area, west of Dura town in the Hebron Governorate, in preparation for the establishment of a new colonial settlement.

WAFA correspondent reported that the occupation forces, accompanied by a group of colonists, began digging and bulldozing works on citizens’ lands in the area.

The occupation trucks had, in recent hours, transported several caravans, water tanks, and other equipment to the site as part of preparations to establish the new colonial settlement.

This step follows a series of incursions that began on Monday, when armed colonists, under the protection of occupation forces, stormed the area and erected a tent and a large sign announcing the establishment of a new settlement named “Doron.”

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich raided the area yesterday, Tuesday, accompanied by several ministers and colonist leaders, where they took part in a ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone for the new colonial settlement, which is planned to be built on Palestinian citizens’ lands.

“Doron” is one of 19 new colonial settlements approved by the occupation government in the West Bank last year, as part of plans aimed at expanding colonial settlement activity and consolidating control over more Palestinian land.

Smotrich also announced during the visit a series of new settlement measures facilitating the seizure and control of land in the Hebron Governorate.

T.R.