Israeli settlers went on a rampage in multiple Palestinian villages from Saturday night to Sunday morning, causing destruction by vandalizing cars, setting fires, and injuring several men in the latest episode of violence in the occupied West Bank.
Reports from the official Palestinian news agency WAFA detailed attacks in at least six communities on Sunday, with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society confirming that three Palestinians in Jalud village sustained head injuries from assaults by settlers and had to be hospitalized. The settlers were also reported to have sustained injuries.
The escalation of violence coincides with Israel’s government pushing forward with the establishment of new settlements in the occupied West Bank. Settler attacks have been on the rise amid a broader surge in violence since the conflict with Iran began.
The Israeli military responded to reports of Israeli civilians committing arson and causing disturbances in the region but did not disclose any arrests or mention whether investigations were initiated.
WAFA documented attacks in Silat al Dahr and Fandaqumiya near Jenin, Jalud and Salfit south of Nablus, and in the agricultural areas of Masafer Yatta and the Jordan Valley.
During the assaults that occurred on the Eid al-Fitr holiday marking the end of Ramadan, homes and vehicles were set on fire, Palestinians were pepper-sprayed, and at least five individuals were injured.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 25 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli settlers and soldiers this year as of March 15.
The Palestinian Authority has recorded a series of arson incidents, including attacks on mosques, across the region.
The violence erupted a day after an 18-year-old settler died in a collision with a Palestinian vehicle near two of the targeted villages. Authorities are investigating claims by the settlers that the collision was intentional.