Israeli President Herzog Consoles Widow After Devastating Fire Destroys Homes in West Bank Settlement

Israeli President Isaac Herzog spoke on Sunday with Yael Shevach, widow of Rabbi Raziel Shevach who was killed in a 2018 shooting attack, after a massive fire destroyed her home in the West Bank settlement of Havat Gilad. The fire, which broke out on Saturday near the Kadumim settlement, rapidly spread due to strong winds, engulfing 24 homes in total and completely burning 13 of them, including Shevach's.

Shevach described the loss as devastating, saying, "We have nothing, no possessions left," and expressed deep pain over losing the tangible memories of her late husband in the blaze. President Herzog offered words of comfort, telling her and the affected residents, "The entire people of Israel stand with you in this difficult time. We love you and your family and think of all who lost their homes."

The fire prompted a swift evacuation of all residents by security forces. Firefighting efforts involved 41 teams, 10 firefighting planes from the Elad squadron, and a police helicopter. Miraculously, no serious injuries were reported. A joint investigation by the Fire and Rescue Services, Israeli Police, and IDF determined the fire was caused by a discarded cigarette near the road.

Among the hardest hit were the Cohen brothers, owners of a major wood warehouse in Samaria, which was destroyed with damages estimated at around 10 million shekels. For Shevach, who has remained in the settlement with her children since her husband's murder as a symbol of resilience, the fire represents another personal tragedy. She shared her loss on social media, receiving widespread sympathy and support from across Israel. Despite the destruction, Shevach and her children were evacuated safely before the fire reached their home.