Settlers Torch Homes in Jalud, Attack Forces; Israeli Leaders Condemn Violence

Dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Jalud, south of Nablus, on Tuesday, setting fire to two homes belonging to the Tobaasi family. The attack occurred hours after the family had returned to their homes under an Israeli Supreme Court order, following nearly two months of absence due to repeated harassment and attacks. Palestinian sources reported that settlers stormed the village, burned the houses, and caused extensive damage to their contents, while villagers attempted to resist the assault. A large contingent of Israeli soldiers arrived at the scene, and Palestinian sources stated that the forces compelled the Tobaasi family to leave their homes again.

The family had only just returned to their residence earlier that day after a court ruling allowed them to reclaim it. Mahmoud Tobaasi described the family's shock upon returning to find their homes vandalized and damaged during their absence, before the settlers' renewed attack caused further destruction, rendering the homes uninhabitable. He detailed a series of escalating aggressions against the family since April, including stone-throwing, arson of doors, erection of tents near the homes, demolition of parts of the buildings, destruction of a storage room, and the cutting off of water and electricity, along with blocking the road to the village. The family had initially left their homes on July 22, citing an inability to remain due to the persistent attacks.

The Israeli military confirmed that the family's return was disrupted by riots. In a statement, the military reported that over 100 settlers gathered in Jalud, blocking roads, burning tires, and throwing stones at security forces. The military also stated that Palestinian buildings, vehicles, and property were set ablaze during the events. According to the military and police, three border police officers sustained minor injuries, and a security vehicle was damaged. Forces dispersed the demonstrators and arrested two individuals for investigation.

Jalud is situated in an area with a history of frequent clashes between Palestinians and settlers over land, roads, and agricultural areas. In response to the violence, Israeli security agencies strongly condemned the assault on security personnel and the destruction of property, warning that such acts destabilize the region and hinder security forces' efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the violence, calling the perpetrators a "small group of rioters" and affirming his support for soldiers and border police, urging law enforcement to "apply the full extent of the law." President Isaac Herzog described the events as "extremely serious" and "inexcusable," calling for the perpetrators to be held accountable. Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi labeled the incidents "serious and disgusting" and stressed the need for a thorough investigation.

In a separate incident, Palestinian sources reported that settlers also set fire to a home and several vehicles in the village of Al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, overnight. This attack occurs amidst ongoing incidents of arson and property damage against Palestinians in the West Bank. Palestinian sources accuse settlers of intensifying attacks, while Israeli authorities state that security forces intervene in some cases to quell violence and apprehend suspects. The West Bank continues to experience frequent friction between settlers and Palestinians, alongside Israeli military operations.