Palestine Family in 'No Man's Land' Declares 'Independence'

A Palestinian family living in what has been dubbed "no man's land" has declared "independence," AFP reported. 

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An Israeli wall north of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank divides Israel and Palestine on that front. However, "a small gap" in part of it leading into a courtyard where the Jumaa family lives has left them neither on Israeli nor Palestinian territory. 

The newly-built part of the wall, which stretches along the road next to the settlement, has left the 25 members of the extended family on the opposite side to the rest of the Palestinian town of El Bireh, according to AFP. 

Owing to this discrepancy, the Jumma family has declared its territory, located in Beit El on the hills of northern Jerusalem, "independent."

The Jumaa family has raised concerns over being on the opposite side of the wall. 

"The wall separated us from the people and from Palestinians. I feel I am inside the settlement, even though I am Palestinian," said Hossam Jumaa, 54, who is a father of eight.

A couple of years ago, when the wall construction plan was first introduced, realizing that they would be isolated, the family brought this to the attention of Israeli authorities, Israel Today reported. However, no heed was paid.

The wall is different from the controversial separation barrier by which Israel seals off the West Bank.

Israel began building the barrier in 2002 during the second Palestinian intifada, arguing it was necessary to stop "Palestinian attackers."