The question of the privatization of Jerusalem Waqf land : the land of Bethlehem and Beit Jala as a case study since 1950

Abstract

This study tries to shed light on the conflict between the Islamic waqf administration in Jerusalem and the Christian population of both Bethlehem and Beit Jala over the land ownership in these two cities. This conflict emerged in the mid-twentieth century after these people refused to recognize that the land in their possession is an Islamic waqf and not private property. Based on this, this study attempts to shed light on this legal issue by tracing the historical roots of this conflict until it was taken to the court for a decision. The main question in this research is: What is the origin of the dispute between the two parties at this particular time? Why did it not appear before this date? Does the difference in religion have a role in this conflict? Or is it a matter of personal and material interests?