Extremist Settlers Torch Palestinian Home Amid Attempted Return

Extremist Israeli settlers torched the home of a Palestinian family in the village of Jalud overnight between Monday and Tuesday, as the family attempted to return to their property. The Toubasi family had been forced to leave their home in July after months of repeated harassment by settlers. The arson attack occurred after the Israeli military attempted to facilitate the family's return. Calls were reportedly circulated among "hilltop youth" groups to prevent their return.

The Israeli military and police stated that over 100 Israeli rioters were present in the village, blocking roads, burning tires, and throwing stones at security forces. The rioters also set fire to Palestinian structures, vehicles, and other property. Three Border Police officers sustained minor injuries, and a security forces vehicle was damaged. Israeli forces dispersed the gathering using crowd control measures and arrested two suspects, who were transferred for investigation. The military stated that investigators would later collect evidence at the scene. The security establishment condemned any harm to security personnel, vandalism, and property damage, noting such events distract from security operations.

The Toubasi family had described a prolonged period of harassment preceding their departure. The father, Mahmoud, stated they were effectively besieged in their home for nearly three months. The harassment began in early April, including attempts to set fire to their homes, settlers establishing a presence near their homes playing loud music at night, throwing stones, and issuing threats. In late April, settlers broke a wall and set fire to a storage area, causing extensive damage. The violence escalated, with settlers taking over a neighboring house and blocking the family's only access to the village, cutting off their water and electricity. The family ultimately decided to leave on July 22, feeling they had no other option.

Mahmoud reported that they had alerted Palestinian and Israeli liaison authorities and filed police complaints, but received little assistance, with authorities citing a lack of sufficient forces or jurisdiction. He described being passed between different security bodies. The military had previously stated that claims were under review and that forces were operating in the area to prevent lawbreakers and maintain order.