Israeli Settlers Continue Attacks on Palestinians in Nablus, West Bank

Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian residents in Beita, southern Nablus, in the West Bank on Friday night, according to various local sources. It was reported that the settlers targeted both individuals and their property in the Al-Khalleh area on the outskirts of Mount Sabih. The violence perpetrated by settlers against Palestinians, alongside the destruction of property, has increased dramatically since the start of the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people on 7 October 2023. This indiscriminate violence against Palestinian civilians and their assets has drawn widespread condemnation. Several countries have imposed sanctions on Israeli settlers accused of committing acts of violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank territories.

Nablus is a significant city in the northern West Bank, situated approximately 49 kilometres north of Jerusalem. The historic city is strategically located in a valley between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, with Mount Sabih positioned just south of Nablus. The area surrounding Mount Sabih has become a focal point of tension and conflict due to the occupation and attempts to develop the illegal Israeli settlement known as Evyatar on its summit. Local residents have consistently organised protests to defend their land from seizure by Israeli settlers. Nablus also serves as one of the largest commercial and cultural hubs for Palestinians, renowned for its classical architectural heritage, traditional industries such as olive soap and sweet production, and as the home of An-Najah National University.