By 5 Towns Central Staff

HAVAT GILAD, SAMARIA (July 21, 2026) — A severe weekend arson attack swept through the agricultural settlement of Havat Gilad in northern Shomron, forcing the immediate evacuation of approximately one hundred local families and causing extensive damage to residential properties, surrounding structures, and personal belongings.

According to a new report, the destructive flames destroyed multiple residences and outbuildings across the area, including the home of a local widow who lost irreplaceable family possessions in the blaze. Despite the sudden loss and physical destruction, community members quickly began organizing relief efforts and outlining plans to reconstruct damaged properties.

In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, support arrived from unexpected places across the region. A farmer from Kibbutz Lahav in the Negev traveled directly to the northern community, delivering personal supplies and farm produce including fresh vegetables, honey, and olive oil to assist affected households facing displacement. The gesture brought emotional encounters between volunteers and displaced residents, many of whom faced temporary uncertainty regarding long-term housing arrangements for their families.

Witnesses at the scene noted that despite the physical destruction occurring just days before Tisha B’Av, local residents displayed remarkable strength and forward-looking determination. Displaced families reportedly began discussing recovery plans and structural rebuilding immediately after emergency responders secured the site. Observers of the recovery efforts expressed deep admiration for the mutual unity and shared responsibility demonstrated between citizens of differing backgrounds, pointing to the collective response as an inspiring example of communal strength and solidarity during times of crisis.