UN's Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs: The humanitarian impact of the takeover of Palestinian water springs by Israeli settlers [.pdf]
ttp://www.a-w-i-p.com/media/blogs/news/News13/ZIO_israel_warter_theft_by_settlers_2_60.jpg" alt="" title="" width="308" height="205" border="1" alt="" />In recent years, Israeli settler activity has significantly impaired Palestinian access to, and use of, a growing number of water springs. - The main methods used by settlers to that end have been threats and intimidation, and the erection of fences around the targeted areas. This phenomenon comes in the context of Israel’s longstanding policy of settling its civilian population in the occupied Palestinian territory, in violation of international humanitarian law. Nearly 40 percent of the West Bank has been seized by the Israeli authorities for that purpose. Additional Palestinian properties, including springs, have been taken over by settler groups without formal authorization, but with the acquiescence and often active support of the Israeli authorities. Following the reduction of Palestinian presence, settlers begin developing the springs into tourist attractions, with the support of various Israeli governmental bodies. The ever growing tourism infrastructure of settlements contributes to their entrenchment by adding a source of revenue for the settler population, as well as by “normalizing” settlements in the eyes of larger segments of Israeli society. The inability to access and use springs has significantly undermined the livelihoods and security of Palestinians living in affected communities. Many farmers were forced to either cease cultivating the land or face a reduction in productivity. Herders and households had to increase their expenditures to purchase more expensive piped or tankered water. The presence of armed settlers at the springs and their surroundings also resulted in increased friction and clashes.
France24: Settlers taking over Palestinian springs: UN report