The Israeli rights group Ir Amim has reported that Israeli demolitions of Palestinian homes and structures in East Jeursalem surged in May, wth a total of 33 buildings demolished.

The figure includes 16 residential units, and 14 non-residential structures.

This is up from figures in the preceding months, with 23 buildings demolished in January, 14 in February, 14 in March and eight in April.

Right groups have reported that the Israeli authorities issue a limited number of building permits to Palestinians in East Jerusalem, while approving an increasing number of permits for Israeli settlers.

This is part of Israel’s broader efforts to consolidate control over the occupied West Bank.

There are currently 158 Israeli settlements and 224 illegal outposts in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, according to the settlement watchdog Peace Now.