Settlers Torch Palestinian Homes in West Bank Villages

Dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Jaloud, south of Nablus, on Tuesday, setting fire to two homes belonging to the Tobaasi family. The family had only recently returned to their homes under a court order after being displaced for approximately two months. Local sources reported that settlers also attacked the village of Al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, burning a home and several vehicles.

In Jaloud, settlers reportedly attacked the Tobaasi family homes, causing significant damage to the structures and their contents. Palestinian witnesses stated that Israeli forces arrived at the scene but did not prevent the settlers' attack, instead providing them with protection. Israeli forces then compelled the Tobaasi family to evacuate their homes again under threat of force. The family had returned earlier that day following a High Court of Justice ruling that allowed them to reclaim their property.

Mahmoud Tobaasi described the extensive damage to his family's homes, noting that they had faced continuous pressure and attacks since April, including arson, vandalism, and the destruction of parts of their homes. The family was forced to leave their homes on July 22nd after enduring prolonged harassment. The Israeli military and police confirmed that the operation to return the Palestinian family to their home in Jaloud was not completed due to riots. They reported that over 100 settlers gathered, blocked roads, burned tires, threw stones at security forces, and set fire to Palestinian property. Three Border Police officers sustained minor injuries during the confrontations, and a security vehicle was damaged. Two suspects were arrested for investigation.

Jaloud and surrounding villages have been frequent targets of settler attacks, including assaults on residents, land seizures, and destruction of property and crops. The incidents in Jaloud and Al-Mughayyir are part of ongoing settler violence against Palestinians and their property across the West Bank.