Settlers Block Arab Family's Return to Strategic Hill Near Shiloh

Hundreds of Israeli settlers from the Shiloh bloc in the Benjamin region gathered on the Tzembarim Hill near the settlement of Esh Kodesh overnight between Monday and Tuesday. They stated their intention was to physically prevent the return of an Arab family to the strategic hilltop, which they claim overlooks the settlement and has been used for past attacks.

The settlers asserted that their presence was to thwart an immediate security threat to Esh Kodesh, following an attempt by security forces to implement a High Court of Justice ruling. They emphasized the incident did not occur within an Arab village but was a struggle for control of a critical vantage point.

According to the settlers, the hill has historically been a focal point for disturbances and terror activities by residents of Jalud and Qusra against locals and hikers. They claim the hill was empty until the village of Jalud expanded onto it, including paving roads and building homes for the Toubasi family, who had previously lived in Tamun. Six months prior, Israeli youths established a settlement outpost on the eastern part of the hill to reassert Jewish control and counter the security threat. The Arab families had left the area, but the Toubasi family, with the aid of left-wing organizations, petitioned the High Court, which ruled for their return.

In contrast, the IDF reported that disturbances erupted, including stone-throwing, which led to the injury of three Border Police officers. The military stated forces were in the area to disperse riots and protect Jalud residents during the planned family return. The IDF reported over 100 participants blocked roads, burned tires, threw stones at security forces, and set fire to structures and property. Three Border Police officers sustained light injuries, and two suspects were arrested.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the violence, stating, "I strongly condemn the violent riots tonight in Samaria and the harm to security forces. The handful of rioters does not represent the law-abiding settler public in Judea and Samaria, does them great injustice, and interferes with our forces in carrying out their mission."