Israel demolishes Palestinian homes near East Jerusalem

Israeli authorities have demolished two Palestinian homes near Arab East Jerusalem, ignoring international concerns.

Israeli paramilitary border police troops were deployed to secure the bulldozing of the two dwellings on the outskirts of Jerusalem.

A Foreign Ministry spokesperson says the razed residences were both illegal.

Palestinians say permits are impossible to obtain, and accuse Israel of using demolitions to tighten its hold on occupied territory in, and around, the area.

They add that the house wrecking policy is aimed at diminishing the Arab presence in Jerusalem. The holy city is at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.