Nablus: Israeli colonists on Monday evening attacked Palestinian civilians' houses in Sebastia town, northwest of the occupied West Bank city of Nablus, according to a municipal source. Mayor of Sebastia, Mohammad Azzam, reported that colonists hurled metal bars and stones at civilian homes, escalating tensions in the area.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the colonists, shielded by occupying forces, stormed the archaeological site of Sebastia for the third time within 24 hours. This incident is part of a recurring pattern of violence by colonists against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank, which often goes unpunished by Israeli authorities. The violence includes arson attacks on property and mosques, stone-throwing, uprooting of crops and olive trees, and assaults on vulnerable homes.
There are approximately 1 million Israeli colonists residing in colonies in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, despite such settlements being in violation of international law. Sebastia, located 11 kilometers northwest of Nablus, is a historical town with a population of about 3,000 Palestinians. The town, with its rich historical significance, includes a Roman amphitheater, temples, Byzantine and Crusader churches, and a mosque. It is believed to be the burial site of Saint John the Forerunner, revered by both Christians and Muslims.
Israel has been making efforts to assert control over Sebastia, which has led to cultural conflicts. These efforts include preventing the Palestinian Authority from conducting restoration works, restricting tourist services, and allegedly looting antiquities. Palestinians have repeatedly complained about settlers attacking the town and fencing off parts of its archaeological sites for religious rituals.
The archaeological area of Sebastia is divided into areas (B) and (C), with the former under joint Israeli-Palestinian control and the latter under full Israeli control. Local restaurant and hotel owners have expressed grievances over the damages and losses caused by Israeli actions in the town. Israel's use of the term 'Judea and Samaria' for the West Bank is an attempt to legitimize its claims to the territory with historical and religious connotations.
