Settlers Set Two Cars on Fire and Deface Home in Taybeh, West Bank, as Christians Continue Christmas Events

Two cars were set on fire and a building was defaced with a threatening message during the night between 4 and 5 December in Taybeh, a Christian village in the northern West Bank. The incident occurred only hours after the inauguration of the parish’s “Christmas Nights” celebrations. The attack, carried out by Israeli settlers, caused material damage but no injuries.

Father Bashar Fawadleh, parish priest of the Latin Church of Taybeh, visited the affected family soon after the incident, a visit that shows care for those who have suffered harm (Psalm 34:18). “They thanked me and said they value the Church’s presence,” he said. “But we need stronger support to safeguard our people and our land. Taybeh is the last Christian village in the area, and we need global cooperation to help it survive.”

The assault came the day after the opening of the parish’s Christmas events, which were attended by diplomats from eight countries historically linked to the Holy Land, as well as visitors from Ramallah, Jerusalem, and nearby towns. After midnight, settlers vandalised property and left graffiti on a private home. “These are the same messages used across the West Bank,” Father Fawadleh said.

Taybeh has faced repeated incidents, six so far this year, and the parish priest said he remains committed to staying in the village. “We remain here. We do not feel safe, but we continue with our daily life. We must continue celebrating Christmas.”

Father Fawadleh said each new attack increases anxiety and prompts some residents to consider leaving. He hopes international attention and diplomatic engagement can support vulnerable communities east of Ramallah. “Our hope does not fade,” he added. “It is the hope of the third day, of the empty tomb—the hope of the Resurrection.”

According to a recent UN OCHA report, 1,680 settler attacks have been documented since the start of the year in more than 270 Palestinian communities, an average of five per day. The report also notes that the olive harvest remains particularly affected, with 178 incidents recorded in October and November across 88 localities.

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