Israeli Settlers Burn West Bank Homes in Riots Organized on Chat Groups
Tensions in the West Bank have escalated after a group of Israeli settlers, allegedly organized through social media chat groups, carried out a wave of violent attacks against Palestinian homes and property. The riots, which began on Sunday evening, resulted in widespread destruction and the burning of multiple homes in the Palestinian village of Burin.
According to eyewitnesses, the settlers, who were armed with rocks, sticks, and firebombs, arrived in the village in the early evening and began attacking homes and businesses. The attacks were reportedly coordinated through a series of WhatsApp chat groups, with messages encouraging settlers to join the riots and “defend” the village.
At least five homes were set on fire during the riots, with multiple families left homeless. Many others were injured, including a number of Palestinian civilians who were beaten by the settlers.
The Israeli military and police were called to the scene, but their response was slow and inadequate, according to local residents. “The army arrived, but they did nothing to stop the settlers,” said one resident. “They just stood by and watched as our homes were burned to the ground.”
The attacks were widely condemned by Palestinian officials and human rights groups, who accused the Israeli government of failing to take adequate measures to protect Palestinian civilians. “These attacks are a clear violation of international law and a violation of the basic human rights of the Palestinian people,” said a spokesperson for the Palestinian Authority.
The Israeli government has yet to comment on the attacks, but it has vowed to take action against those responsible. In the meantime, the residents of Burin are left to pick up the pieces and rebuild their shattered homes.
