Israel Defense Forces says security forces were deployed overnight to multiple Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank following reports of arson attacks allegedly carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinian homes and property.
In a statement, the military said troops and border police units were sent to several villages after reports emerged of Israeli civilians setting fire to structures, damaging property, and causing unrest in the affected areas.
“Security forces condemn violence of any kind and will continue acting to maintain public order and protect residents in the area,” the army said.
WAFA reported that several Palestinians were injured during the attacks, although the extent of the injuries was not immediately clear.
The incidents followed heightened tensions after Israeli authorities reported that an Israeli civilian died on Saturday in an incident involving a Palestinian vehicle that struck an Israeli car.
Israel Police said investigators are examining whether the crash was deliberate and linked to terrorism, but no official determination has yet been announced.
Violence involving Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank has intensified sharply since the outbreak of war triggered by the October 7 attacks.
According to data compiled from the Ramallah-based Palestinian health ministry, six Palestinians have been killed in settler-related attacks in the territory since March 1.
The broader security situation in the West Bank — occupied by Israel since 1967 — has continued to deteriorate alongside the ongoing conflict in Gaza Strip.
Figures compiled by Agence France-Presse based on Palestinian health ministry data indicate that at least 1,050 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since the Gaza war began, including militants and civilians.
Israeli official figures show that 45 Israelis, including civilians and members of the security forces, have also been killed in Palestinian attacks or during military operations in the same period.
The latest incidents are likely to add further pressure to an already volatile security environment in the occupied territory.
About the Author
