Israeli troops shot and killed two Palestinians in the occupied West Bank on Thursday during an operation near Karmei Zur, where the army said the men were planning an attack. The military released no further details, and Palestinian authorities also remained silent about the identities of those killed.
Meanwhile, tensions rose further as Palestinian officials accused Israeli settlers of setting fire to the Hajja Hamida mosque near Deir Istiya. Burnt Qurans, smoke-stained walls and graffiti were found at the site, prompting strong condemnation from Palestinian leaders who called the attack a violation of religious sanctity.
Additionally, Israeli forces said they responded to reports and video showing suspects torching the mosque and spray-painting its walls. However, troops claimed they found no suspects at the scene and transferred the case to police and security agencies. The military stressed that it condemns all violence and will work to maintain order.
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Moreover, global reaction was swift, with the UN chief denouncing the mosque arson as unacceptable and warning that rising extremist attacks are worsening tensions. His spokesperson stated that such acts must stop immediately to prevent further deterioration across the region.
This latest incident came just a day after Israel’s army chief vowed to curb settler violence, calling recent attacks a “red line” that distracts soldiers from critical missions. He pledged decisive action to hold perpetrators accountable and restore stability in affected areas.
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Violence in the West Bank has surged since the Gaza war began in October 2023, with over 1,000 Palestinians killed and dozens of Israelis dying in retaliatory attacks. Humanitarian agencies report record-high settler assaults, while Palestinians continue to accuse Israeli forces of failing to arrest offenders.