Two arrested on suspicion of starting devastating Gilad Farm fire in Samaria

Two Palestinians have been arrested in connection with a fire that devastated the Gilad Farm settlement in the West Bank on Saturday. The blaze damaged numerous structures and vehicles, and injured several individuals, including two firefighters.

The arrests were made in a joint operation involving the Israel Police, Border Patrol, and IDF. Initial reports from Army Radio suggested the suspects may have thrown a cigarette butt from their vehicle, indicating no immediate evidence of intentional arson. However, the Gilad Farm committee strongly condemned the incident, labeling it as terrorism and demanding severe legal penalties.

“

The community thanks the security forces and the police for the rapid action that led to the arrest. We demand that the law enforcement authorities fully investigate, act decisively, and impose the most severe penalties provided for by law on those responsible for this criminal act. This is terrorism, and this incident should be treated as terrorism.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir congratulated the police on the swift arrest, stating that those who set fires and attempt to terrorize will be pursued and brought to justice. He affirmed a policy of decisive action against anyone threatening Israeli citizens' security.

The fire necessitated the mass evacuation of residents and temporary closure of Highway 55. Firefighters eventually controlled the blaze, but two firefighters sustained moderate and light injuries, while several residents received treatment for smoke inhalation.

“

Anyone who sets fires, harms residents, and tries to terrorize should know that the security forces will pursue them, reach them, and bring them to justice. This is the policy, and we will continue to act decisively against anyone who seeks to harm the security of Israeli citizens.