At-Tuwani (التواني) is a small Palestinian village in the South Hebron Hills, southeast of Yatta and near the Israeli settlement of Ma’on with a population of 194 residents (2017) and is known for its cave dwellings.

Since 1967, At-Tuwani has been under Israeli control, affecting its administrative and legal status. A village council was established in 1994, overseeing At-Tuwani and neighboring hamlets.

Harassment and apartheid

Settlement of Ma’on established in 1982, with further outposts and expansions, often leading to settler attacks on Palestinians. Settlers from Havat Ma’on have frequently attacked Palestinian shepherds, farmers, and international observers. Their violence includes poisoning water sources, contaminating grazing areas, and direct attacks.

At-Tuwani hosts the only local school, attended by children who must pass near the settler outpost, risking frequent attacks.

Many buildings, including the local school, face demolition orders. Attempts to build a kindergarten and clinic were obstructed, with the clinic’s construction declared illegal.

A weekly clinic funded by a European NGO serves local residents, but it faces limitations due to the ongoing restrictions and lack of permits.

No running water in At-Tuwani; residents rely on rainwater cisterns and face challenges obtaining water infrastructure permits. Efforts to connect to the Israeli water network have seen limited success due to the area’s designation as Area C, under Israeli control.

Many homes and lands are at risk due to exclusion from the Israeli Civil Administration's master plan. Legal battles continue to prevent demolitions and maintain residents' rights to shelter and water access. Legal and Human Rights

Advocacy:

NGOs and Israeli MPs have petitioned for At-Tuwani's access to basic services. The community’s struggle highlights a "catch-22" situation, where legal restrictions prevent sustainable living and farming practices, risking land confiscation.

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