Yael Shevah Describes Total Loss as Fire Destroys Homes in Gilead Farm Settlement

Yael Shevah, a resident of the Gilead Farm settlement and widow of Rabbi Raziel Shevah, recounted the devastating fire that completely destroyed her home. She was in Kfar Saba with her children when a friend informed her of the blaze. Shevah expressed relief that her family was evacuated just as the fire began, describing the rapid spread fueled by strong winds and extreme heat. She detailed the total loss of her belongings, including personal items and cherished mementos of her late husband, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing irreplaceable keepsakes.

Shevah suspects the fire was a nationalist-motivated arson, citing celebrations and fireworks from nearby villages shortly after the fire started. Currently, the settlement lacks water and electricity, with 13 homes destroyed and all residents evacuated. She voiced concerns about recovery challenges, as many families lack insurance due to the settlement's unofficial status. Despite this, Shevah affirmed her family's determination to rebuild and return, drawing on past resilience.

Firefighters from the Judea and Samaria district continue battling the blaze, which began near the Mitzpe Yishai neighborhood in Kedumim and quickly spread to Gilead Farm. The fire damaged 24 homes in total, including a wood storage facility. The firefighting effort involved 41 teams, 10 firefighting planes, an Israeli police helicopter, IDF forces, engineering equipment, and water tankers. Police investigations focus on a discarded cigarette butt as the likely cause, with no other incendiary materials found at the scene.