Israel Police arrest eight suspected extremist vandals after graffiti sprayed on West Bank mosque

Israeli police apprehended eight individuals suspected of extremist vandalism on Monday night in the southern Hebron Hills. The suspects were accused of vandalizing a mosque in Bazariya, northwest of Nablus, by setting it ablaze and spray-painting anti-Muslim slogans in Hebrew on the walls. One of the slogans directed threats at US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, stating "Greetings from the terrorists" after the ambassador denounced extremist settler violence in the West Bank.

Another slogan threatened journalists from Israel's public broadcaster, KAN News, who had reported on extremist settler violence in the region. The slogans targeted KAN News correspondent Roy Sharon by name. Police also seized three vehicles believed to have been utilized by the suspects during their alleged arson and assault incidents.

All eight suspects are local West Bank residents aged between 16 and 20 years old. Both Israel Police and the IDF condemned the acts of violence, property damage, and religious desecration, emphasizing that further arrests are anticipated. The IDF also noted that attacks on religious institutions undermine regional security and divert resources away from counter-terrorism efforts.

Tag Meir, an organization combating racism and violence in Israel, condemned the suspects and accused religious Zionists, including MK Zvi Sukkot, of involvement in the incidents. Police requested an extension of detention for the suspects, and the ongoing investigation remains active.