Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan announced Monday that the Judea and Samaria police district has recognized the arson that destroyed much of the Havat Gilad community as a hostile act, clearing the way for state-funded rebuilding and compensation. Dagan said the community will be rebuilt and become larger. The announcement follows his earlier call earlier today for the government to recognize the fire as a hostile act.
Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, announced Monday afternoon that the Judea and Samaria police district has recognized the recent arson that destroyed much of the Havat Gilad community as a "hostile act" (pe'ulot eiva). The designation provides a legal basis for the state to fund the rebuilding of the settlement and compensate residents for their losses. Dagan said the community will be rebuilt and become larger.
The development follows Dagan's earlier call earlier Monday for the government to formally recognize the fire as a hostile act and take responsibility for rebuilding. Police had previously arrested suspects in connection with the wildfire, which swept through Havat Gilad on Saturday, destroying homes and a jewelry business. The fire devastated the small community, leaving families like that of Givati reservist Yishai and his pregnant wife Tsofia homeless.
The police recognition marks a turning point in the recovery effort, as it shifts the financial burden to the state. Dagan's promise of a larger settlement signals an intention to strengthen the community's presence in the area. The exact scope of the rebuilding and compensation package has not yet been detailed.
5 developments
- DevelopingFundraising campaign launched for Givati reservist Yishai, wife Tsofia after Havat Gilad fire
- DevelopingHavat Gilad wildfire: 30 buildings destroyed, 5 injured; arson suspected
- DevelopingSamaria council head Yossi Dagan: Goal is to rebuild Havat Gilad as a larger settlement after fire
- DevelopingSmotrich visits fire-hit Havat Gilad, orders immediate property tax review
Source and signal
- Internal intake