Palestinian mosques face rising arson attacks in West Bank

The Wall and Settlement Against the Wall and Settlement Resistance Committee has documented 23 incidents of arson or attempted arson targeting Palestinian mosques and their facilities since the beginning of 2023 through October 11, 2026.

Of these incidents, settlers were responsible for 20, while three were attributed to the Israeli military. The committee noted a significant escalation in 2026, with 13 incidents recorded so far this year, representing approximately 55% of the total documented cases in this period. This figure is more than double the total recorded in 2025.

Most recently, on Wednesday morning, settlers attacked the town of Makhmas northeast of Jerusalem, setting fire to a mosque, a Palestinian vehicle, and an olive tree. The committee reported that attacks have expanded to include targeting mosque buildings, entrances, women's prayer areas, and religious texts.