Netanyahu Condemns Violent Riots in Samaria, Vows Full Enforcement

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong condemnation Tuesday morning following violent riots that occurred overnight in the Samaria region. "I strongly condemn the violent riots tonight in Samaria and the harm to security forces who arrived to maintain law and order," stated the Prime Minister's Office. Netanyahu emphasized that the "group of rioters does not represent the law-abiding residents of Judea and Samaria, does them immense injustice, and hinders our forces in carrying out their mission."

The incidents took place in the Palestinian village of Jalud, where over 100 Israelis rioted in an attempt to prevent a Palestinian family from returning to their home. The family had left their home months earlier following nationalist crime. As part of their efforts to block the family's return, the rioters set fire to the house, blocked roads, burned tires, and threw stones at security forces. They also set fire to vehicles and other property in the village.

The IDF stated that "IDF and Border Police forces operated during the night in the Jalud village area in the Samaria Brigade, to disperse Israeli rioters and protect the village residents." The IDF reported that the riot began at the time coordinated for the return of the Palestinian family to their home, which they were forced to abandon after several incidents of nationalist crime against them. Due to the violence, the mission to return the family to their home was not completed.

During clashes with security forces, three Border Police officers sustained light injuries, and damage was caused to a security forces vehicle. Two of the rioters were arrested. Netanyahu added, "I support the IDF and Border Police soldiers who are working to thwart terrorism and maintain security, and I call on law enforcement authorities to exhaust the full severity of the law against the rioters."