Israeli forces arrest two Palestinians in Havat Gilad fire probe

Israeli forces arrested two Palestinians on Monday in connection with a fire that damaged dozens of homes and vehicles in the Samaria community of Havat Gilad. The arrests followed an overnight raid on Sunday, and the suspects were transferred to the Israel Police's Judea and Samaria District Central Investigations Unit for questioning. Police stated that "Decisions regarding further legal proceedings... will be made in accordance with the findings of the investigation." The massive blaze on Saturday destroyed 15 homes, 10 businesses, and over 30 structures, forcing the evacuation of approximately 100 families. While Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan suspected arson, stating a burning object was thrown from a vehicle, an initial police, fire, and IDF statement suggested the fire originated from a cigarette butt thrown from a vehicle, igniting dry vegetation. Authorities continue to investigate and search for the vehicle involved.