Eliezer Berland Followers Clash with Palestinians in West Bank Village Without Military Coordination

In the early hours between Monday and Tuesday, followers of Eliezer Berland, a convicted criminal, entered the Palestinian village of Kif al-Haras, home to the tombs of Joshua and Caleb, without coordinating with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Palestinians threw stones at the group, sparking a violent confrontation. Two followers were injured and taken to Shaare Zedek Medical Center and a Terem urgent care center. Five members of the group were detained for questioning by the Benjamin District Police.

One follower justified the unauthorized visit by stating that since the area is classified as Area B, the IDF should allow free access. He acknowledged that this was not the first time they had entered the village, adding that Palestinians repeatedly throw stones and cause disturbances. Another follower explained that most of those present were deserters from the military, which is why they avoided calling the police or emergency medical services during the fight to prevent arrests.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the West Bank, particularly regarding unauthorized visits to sensitive religious sites and the challenges faced by Israeli security forces in managing such events. The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the clash and the injuries sustained.