Massive blaze destroys homes, businesses in Samaria’s Havat Gilad

A massive blaze swept through Havat Gilad in Samaria over Shabbat, destroying 15 homes, 10 businesses, and over 30 structures, and forcing the evacuation of approximately 100 families. A firefighter sustained moderate injuries, but no residents were hurt. While Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan and community administrator Moshe Chachmon suspect arson, authorities’ preliminary conclusion points to a cigarette butt thrown from a vehicle. An investigation is ongoing, and security forces are searching for the vehicle involved. An online crowdfunding campaign has raised over 5 million shekels to assist affected families.