Suspects in Gilad Farm Arson Released Under Restrictions as Investigation Continues

Six suspects detained on suspicion of involvement in the severe arson at Gilad Farm were released on Thursday under restrictive conditions. Israeli police emphasized that the investigation remains active, with a special team analyzing hundreds of hours of footage to identify those responsible. The team has collected dozens of security camera recordings along the route near the fire site, recently uncovering additional video from various locations.

Police noted that around 150 vehicles passed through the area at the fire's onset, with over 100 having open windows, complicating efforts to pinpoint relevant vehicles. Investigators continue to intensify their efforts, examining all vehicles and occupants to identify suspects. Authorities pledged to persist until the perpetrators are caught and prosecuted.

The fire broke out last Saturday near the Yishai neighborhood in the settlement of Kedumim around 2 p.m. Firefighters quickly arrived to find a deliberate, coordinated arson attack rather than an accident or weather-related cause. According to reports, militants from the nearby Palestinian village of Jit ignited four separate fire points simultaneously to maximize damage and endanger lives. However, some sources suggested the fire started from a cigarette butt and spread rapidly due to strong winds.

Throughout the week, multiple videos surfaced showing Palestinians attempting to ignite fires near Jewish communities in the West Bank. Exclusive footage obtained by Channel 14 showed a female assailant from the nearby village of Sa'ir setting multiple fires with a burning rag. Security personnel documented her actions using a drone.

Police stated the investigation team is awaiting additional forensic and visual evidence to strengthen suspicions. They have identified more vehicles present during the relevant timeframe and increased investigative resources to examine the identities and security backgrounds of all involved. The case is being treated as a nationalist arson attack, with authorities committed to bringing those responsible to justice.