West bank, Mar 23 : A wave of coordinated attacks by Israeli settlers has struck multiple Palestinian villages across the occupied West Bank, resulting in property destruction, injuries, and heightened regional tensions, according to local sources, officials, and rights groups.
The incidents, reported overnight from Saturday into Sunday, targeted several communities including Jalud, Qaryut, and al-Funduqmiya, where homes, vehicles, and agricultural lands were set ablaze. Witnesses described groups of masked individuals moving between villages in what appeared to be organised raids.
The violence followed the death of 18-year-old settler Yehuda Sherman, who was killed in an incident involving a Palestinian driver. Authorities have not confirmed whether the collision was intentional, but the event quickly became a flashpoint.
Messages circulating in settler communication networks reportedly called for retaliation, with some posts urging a “revenge campaign.” Shortly afterward, multiple attacks were reported across different locations, suggesting a rapid escalation.
Residents in affected areas said large groups—estimated at up to 100 individuals—entered villages during the night, damaging property and clashing with locals. Several Palestinians were injured, including individuals suffering head wounds and physical assaults, according to medical responders.
The Israeli military acknowledged that its forces were deployed following reports of civilians carrying out acts of arson and violence. However, witnesses and local sources alleged that security personnel present in some areas did not intervene in time to prevent the attacks or stop assailants moving between locations.
Israeli police said arrests were made in at least one incident near Deir al-Hatab and stated that authorities maintain a policy of zero tolerance toward violent extremism.
Palestinian officials condemned the attacks, describing them as deliberate acts targeting civilians and infrastructure, particularly during the period of Eid al-Fitr, a time of religious significance.
Human rights organisations sharply criticised the response of security forces. Yesh Din described the events as “a night of pogroms,” alleging that authorities failed to take preventive action despite prior warnings. Similarly, B’Tselem said such incidents reflect a broader pattern of violence linked to settlement expansion and weak enforcement.
Political reactions within Israel also highlighted divisions. Opposition figure Yair Golan accused the government of allowing lawlessness to spread, warning that unchecked settler violence undermines both security and governance.
The latest घटनाएँ come amid a broader surge in tensions in the West Bank, which has intensified alongside regional conflict dynamics. According to United Nations data, violence involving settlers and Israeli forces has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties since late 2023.
Israel maintains that settlements are part of its security and historical claims, while much of the international community considers them illegal under international law. Around 700,000 Israeli settlers currently live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside millions of Palestinians.
As the situation evolves, concerns are growing that continued cycles of retaliation and limited accountability could further destabilize the already volatile region.
