Palestinian officials said Israeli settlers set fire to two mosques in the occupied West Bank overnight, following deadly clashes that left six people dead this week. Violence in the region has escalated since the Gaza war began in October 2023.
What happened in Qusra?
Abdel Azim Wadi, mayor of Qusra, reported that settlers torched a mosque under construction, damaging its entrance and stonework. The attackers left Hebrew graffiti, including the word'revenge', on the mosque's walls.
What about the incident in Kour?
In a separate incident, Israeli settlers set fire to a mosque in the village of Kour, near Tulkarem, and spray-painted racist slogans on its walls, according to the Palestinian ministry of endowments and religious affairs.
What was the response from the Israeli military?
The Israeli military said troops were dispatched to Qusra and identified signs of arson and graffiti. Israeli police are set to investigate and collect evidence.
What has been the recent violence in the region?
Deadly clashes broke out between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the village of Tell, resulting in four Palestinian and two Israeli deaths. The Israeli military has since launched a 'counter-terrorism' operation, arresting over 130 individuals across the West Bank.
