Two Arabs Arrested for Suspected Arson of Massive Fire at Gilad Farm Settlement

Two Arab suspects were arrested on Monday for allegedly setting the massive fire that devastated Gilad Farm, a Jewish settlement in the West Bank, over the recent weekend. The fire caused severe damage to dozens of buildings and vehicles. The suspects were taken in for further investigation, contradicting initial police assessments that the fire was accidentally started by a cigarette butt.

According to reports, militants from the nearby village of Jit deliberately ignited four separate fire points simultaneously to maximize destruction and endanger lives. Firefighters, security forces, and numerous local volunteers battled the blaze for hours. Eight firefighting planes and an aerial reconnaissance helicopter were deployed to assist in controlling the fire.

The fire destroyed 26 residential homes and severely damaged four local businesses, inflicting significant economic losses. Five people were injured during firefighting efforts, including four firefighters who sustained burns and smoke inhalation while protecting residents, and one civilian with minor injuries. All were hospitalized for treatment.

A volunteer at the scene described the event as a painful blow to the pioneering settlement in Samaria but emphasized the community's resilience and determination to rebuild and remain on their ancestral land despite the barbaric terror attack.