(JTA) — Dozens of residents of a West Bank settlement were evacuated from their homes after inhaling smoke from a brush fire suspected of being set by Palestinians.
Thirty residents of Beit Hagai, a settlement in the Hebron Hills, were treated for smoke inhalation Friday, the The Jerusalem Post reported. The fire is believed to be a revenge attack for the suspected arson that killed a Palestinian toddler and injured his family the day before.
Thursday’s fire, allegedly started by Jewish extremists, has been widely condemned by Palestinian and Israeli leaders and has triggered rioting throughout the West Bank.
A Palestinian passer-by who had tried to help put out Friday’s fire was among those injured in the Beit Haggai blaze, according to the Post.
Similar fires were also reported in Yitzhar, another West Bank settlement, and there were reports throughout the West Bank of Palestinians hurling rocks at Israeli motorists.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
