Settlers burn Palestinian homes and vehicles near Nablus

Israeli settlers reportedly set fire to several Palestinian homes and vehicles in villages near Nablus on Tuesday, according to local security reports. The arson was witnessed by residents of the villages of Al‑Jalazone and Al‑Zaytoun, both located within the West Bank’s Nablus district. The incident occurred in the early afternoon, with flames engulfing three houses and two cars before Palestinian security forces intervened.

The fires caused significant damage to the properties, though no injuries were reported. Palestinian officials described the act as part of a pattern of settler violence in the area, citing previous incidents of vandalism and intimidation. Israeli authorities denied any involvement, stating that the security forces had detained two individuals suspected of the arson and were conducting an investigation. The Palestinian Authority called for an independent inquiry and urged the international community to monitor the situation closely.

The incident adds to mounting tensions in the West Bank, where settler activity frequently clashes with Palestinian residents. Both sides have called for restraint and a return to diplomatic engagement, while international observers warn that such acts risk escalating the already fragile security environment in the region.