Arson Attack Sparks Massive Fire in West Bank's Gilead Farm, Causing Extensive Damage

A large-scale fire erupted on Saturday afternoon in the Gilead Farm area near the West Bank settlement of Kedumim, suspected to be a deliberate arson attack by militants from the nearby Palestinian village of Jit. The fire began around 2 p.m. with four simultaneous ignition points set by assailants aiming to inflict maximum damage and harm residents.

The blaze rapidly spread due to strong winds, threatening nearby homes and businesses. Firefighters, supported by eight firefighting planes and a helicopter, battled the flames for hours in a heroic effort to contain the fire. Despite their efforts, 26 homes were completely destroyed, along with severe damage to four local businesses. Five people were injured, including four firefighters who sustained smoke inhalation and burns while protecting residents, and one civilian with minor injuries. All received medical treatment and were evacuated to hospitals.

Authorities confirmed the fire was not accidental but a planned attack, though some reports initially suggested a cigarette butt might have caused the blaze. Police and fire investigators, alongside IDF units from the West Bank and Central Command, are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. Security forces have also deployed aerial units and drones to monitor the area, maintain order, and prevent further flare-ups.

A volunteer firefighter expressed resilience, stating that despite the destruction, the community of Gilead Farm and Kedumim will rebuild and continue to strengthen their roots in the ancestral land. The incident marks a severe escalation of agricultural and nationalist terrorism in the region, underscoring ongoing tensions in the West Bank.

"Firefighters continue extensive efforts to extinguish remaining hotspots and prevent reignition," police reported, emphasizing the coordinated response involving 41 firefighting and rescue teams. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances and hold those responsible accountable.