Settlers Set Fire to Mosque in West Bank

In the West Bank, a mosque was set on fire by Israeli settlers. They also wrote hateful messages on the walls. This happened just one day after some Israeli leaders spoke out against violence by settlers. The mosque in Deir Istiya had one of its walls burned. Also, three copies of the Quran and some carpets were damaged. The settlers wrote messages in Hebrew. These messages seemed to be in response to a military leader who had criticized settler violence. The Israeli military is looking into the attack. They have not found any suspects yet. The case has been given to the police and security agencies. This attack is part of a larger problem. There have been many similar incidents recently. Top officials, military leaders, and the U. S. government have all expressed concern. Some Israeli leaders have condemned the violence. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the attacks "shocking and serious. " The army chief also spoke out against the violence. He said the army would not tolerate it. Despite these condemnations, settler violence continues. Palestinians and rights groups say the violence is widespread. They also say the Israeli government does not do enough to stop it. Settler violence has been happening for decades. The mosque in Deir Istiya has been attacked before. In 2012 and 2014, settlers also vandalized it. Since the war in Gaza started, settler violence has gotten worse. October saw the highest number of settler attacks ever recorded. Palestinians say the goal of the violence is to force them off their land. Settlers have also been expanding their settlements. They have set up new farming outposts. These outposts are near Palestinian villages. Palestinians accuse the Israeli army and police of not doing enough to stop the settlers.