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Settlers launch coordinated attack on Palestinian village
Israeli settlers stormed the West Bank village of Deir al-Hatab on Sunday, firing shots and torching homes, including the residence of Palestinian bank manager Barhan Omar. Omar, who escaped with his children by hiding on the roof, described the assault as "organized terrorism" aimed at killing civilians.
Injuries and destruction reported
At least 10 Palestinians were injured during the rampage, primarily from thrown stones, with one man shot in the foot. Deir al-Hatab, previously untouched by such large-scale violence, saw multiple homes set ablaze. The attack followed the funeral of 18-year-old Israeli Yehuda Sherman, whose death in a vehicle collision near the Elon Moreh settlement sparked settler outrage.
Escalation amid regional conflicts
Settler violence has surged since the onset of the Iran war, with six Palestinians killed by settlers in recent weeks, according to the UN. In a separate incident, settlers in Khirbet Humsa were accused of sexual assault and beatings while forcing residents off their land. Israeli police have arrested seven suspects in connection with the case.
Displacement and expansion
UN data reveals that 4,765 Palestinians from 97 locations have been displaced by settler violence between January 2023 and mid-February 2026, primarily in Area C of the West Bank. This year alone, 600 residents of the Bedouin village Ras Ein al-Auja were forced to flee. Human rights groups warn that violence is now spreading to Area B, where Palestinians retain limited civil control.
"What we're seeing is a continuation of the ethnic cleansing campaign by Israel."
Yair Dvir, B'Tselem spokesman
Allegra Pacheco of the West Bank Protection Consortium described the violence as "an intentional policy" driven by top Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has been sanctioned for inciting violence. Smotrich, a settler himself, has declared his opposition to a Palestinian state and approved 69 new settlements, some retroactively.
Military response criticized
Israel's military chief, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, condemned settler violence as "morally and ethically unacceptable," but residents of Deir al-Hatab accused soldiers of ignoring the attack and delaying emergency services. The IDF stated it took the incident seriously but faces criticism for failing to prevent or prosecute settler violence.
Fear and defiance in Deir al-Hatab
Villagers now fear further attacks, with settlers reportedly planning a new outpost nearby. Samer Omar, a father of four, expressed despair: "There's no safety anymore." Barhan Omar, however, struck a defiant tone, warning of potential Palestinian resistance if pressure continues.
"The Palestinian people will remain steadfast, defending their land and their lives."
Barhan Omar, Deir al-Hatab resident
