Yosef Haddad Visits Gilad Farm After Devastating Fire, Vows to Rebuild Stronger

Yosef Haddad, a prominent Israeli public activist, visited Gilad Farm in the West Bank on Wednesday, following a massive fire that caused extensive damage to the community. Haddad condemned the attack, calling the area an integral part of Israel and accusing Palestinian Authority police officers of deliberately igniting the blaze by throwing a lit cigarette butt. "No one should spread nonsense," he said, emphasizing that such acts would not be committed near their own villages.

In a video posted on his Instagram, Haddad addressed Israel's enemies with a firm message: "What you burn, we will rebuild fourfold," promising stronger and more impressive reconstruction. The fire erupted last weekend near the Yishai neighborhood in the settlement of Kedumim. Initial reports and investigations indicated the fire was not accidental but a coordinated arson attack, with militants from the nearby Palestinian village of Jit allegedly setting four separate fire points to maximize damage and endanger lives.

Firefighters, security forces, and local volunteers fought the blaze for hours, aided by eight firefighting planes and an aerial reconnaissance helicopter. The fire rapidly spread due to strong winds, directly threatening Gilad Farm homes. Ultimately, 26 Jewish family homes were completely destroyed, and four local businesses suffered severe damage. Five people were injured during firefighting and rescue efforts, including four firefighters who sustained burns and smoke inhalation, and one civilian with minor injuries.

The incident has heightened tensions in the region, with Haddad's visit underscoring the community's resilience and determination to rebuild. Official sources have yet to confirm the exact cause of the fire, but the prevailing suspicion remains that it was a deliberate arson attack by Palestinian militants.