Massive Fire Ravages Shomron Settlement Gilad, Destroys 13 Homes

A large fire broke out on Saturday in the Shomron settlement of Havat Gilad, prompting the evacuation of all residents after flames reached the homes. Dozens of firefighting teams worked for hours to contain the blaze, supported by firefighting aircraft. Two firefighters were injured, one moderately and one lightly, during the operation. By the end of the Sabbath, police, fire and rescue services, and the IDF announced that control over the fire had been achieved.

Simultaneously, fire investigators from the Judea and Samaria district, together with police investigators from the Shomron district, launched an investigation into the fire's cause. Preliminary findings indicate the fire started at a single point due to a discarded lit cigarette alongside the road, which apparently ignited the blaze. Efforts continue by the IDF and Israeli police to locate the vehicle involved in the incident to complete the investigation promptly.

At least 13 homes, a garage, and a wood storage facility were destroyed in the fire, according to official reports.