Late Sunday night, armed Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Abu Falah in the occupied West Bank, killing three Palestinians and injuring several others. Witnesses said the assailants carried out the attack under the presence and protection of Israeli security forces.

Victims and Injuries

According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the deceased are:

Thaer Farouq Hamayel (24) – shot in the head.

Fara’ Jawdat Hamayel (57) – shot in the head.

Mohammad Hasan Murra (55) – died from asphyxiation caused by tear gas.

Local residents reported that dozens of armed settlers approached from the northern part of the village. When Palestinian security guards tried to stop them, the settlers opened fire. Several villagers were injured, some from live bullets and others from the effects of tear gas.

Rising Tensions in the West Bank

The attack comes at a time of heightened violence in the region. Last week, at least six Palestinians were killed in settler attacks across the West Bank. Palestinian authorities condemned the incident as an “organized act of terrorism,” claiming that the settlers operated under the protection of the Israeli army. They called on the international community to hold the perpetrators accountable.

Israeli Military Response

The Israeli military stated that its forces were informed of the incident and that the matter is under investigation. They assured action against illegal activities, although previous attacks have often seen little concrete enforcement against the perpetrators.

Grief and Anger in the Village

Funerals for the three victims were attended by large numbers of villagers. Locals said the ongoing attacks make them feel unsafe and threaten their homes, farms, and livelihoods. Elderly residents added that the persistent violence is forcing families to consider abandoning their lands.