Extremist settlers attacked Palestinians in approximately 20 locations across the West Bank on Saturday night, torching homes, vehicles, and other property, according to a security source. Footage from the villages of Jalud, Fandaqumiya, Silat ad-Dhahr and Qaryut showed buildings on fire, with residents attempting to evacuate.
West Bank Violence Escalates Following Settler Death
The attacks followed the death of 18-year-old settler Yehuda Sherman, who was killed earlier on Saturday when a Palestinian-owned pickup truck struck the ATV he was traveling on near a settlement outpost. The police and Israel Defense Forces are examining the circumstances of the incident, with some politicians immediately denouncing it as terrorism.
Settlers reportedly used Molotov cocktails in Fandaqumiya, threw stones near Ramallah, and deployed an explosive device in Sebastia, near Nablus, igniting two buildings and three cars. Eleven Palestinians were lightly wounded in the attacks, a security source reported to Haaretz.
The Palestinian Red Crescent reported three injuries from settler beatings in Jalud, and six more in villages in the Jenin area. Footage circulating online showed dozens of assailants entering Jalud. Near Shiloh, settlers threw stones at an ambulance, and near Hebron, they established roadblocks.
The IDF stated that troops and Border Police officers were dispatched to respond to the incidents, and that they condemn violence of any kind. However, there were no immediate reports of arrests. Attacks by extremist settlers have been occurring on a near-daily basis in recent weeks.
On Sunday morning, Palestinian media reported three Palestinians were injured in beatings and stone-throwings even as traveling between Salfit and Bruqin in the northern West Bank. The IDF is investigating the incidents.
International and Domestic Reactions
Diplomats from 13 European countries and Canada issued a joint statement condemning “increasing settler terror and violence.” Several opposition figures within Israel also condemned the violence, with one lawmaker labeling the events a “pogrom.” Former prime minister Naftali Bennett denounced “nationalist violence” last week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the attacks?
The attacks occurred following the death of 18-year-old settler Yehuda Sherman, who was killed when a Palestinian-owned pickup truck struck the ATV he was traveling on.
How many locations were targeted?
Extremist settlers attacked Palestinians in some 20 locations across the West Bank on Saturday night.
What was the response from Israeli security forces?
The IDF stated that troops and Border Police officers were sent to respond to the incidents, and that they condemn violence of any kind, but there were no immediate reports of arrests.
Given the recent escalation of violence and the lack of immediate arrests, what steps might be taken to de-escalate tensions in the West Bank?
