Settlers torch mosque and spray graffiti in occupied West Bank

MIKHMAS, Palestine (MNTV) — Israeli settlers set fire to a mosque and spray-painted Hebrew slogans on its exterior in the occupied West Bank village of Mikhmas early Wednesday, according to Palestinian residents and the Israeli military.

According to Agence France-Presse, resident Atta Kanaan said he heard breaking glass shortly after midnight and rushed to the mosque, located about 50 metres from his home. Residents called firefighters and used extinguishers to contain part of the blaze before it consumed the building.

The fire destroyed interior carpeting and blackened the mosque’s walls. An AFP journalist also observed Hebrew graffiti on the exterior, including a slogan declaring that silence should not be mistaken for sleep.

Kanaan said a vehicle was also set on fire. Residents have reportedly organised night patrols in recent weeks because of fears that settlers could target homes, particularly those on the outskirts of the village.

The Israeli military said soldiers were dispatched after reports of arson, graffiti and vehicle damage. It said no suspects had been identified and an investigation had been opened.

The attack adds to concerns about threats facing Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank, where residents have reported settler violence and damage to homes, vehicles and religious sites. The absence of identified suspects leaves questions about accountability unresolved.