West Bank, May 27 (V7N)- Palestinian residents in the occupied West Bank have alleged that Israeli settlers are systematically stealing livestock from Palestinian farms, causing severe financial hardship ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.
According to local residents, CCTV footage captured incidents of sheep being taken during the night from farms owned by Palestinian families.
One resident, Samiha Rashid, said she was devastated after finding empty sheepfolds in the morning.
“We used to survive the whole year by selling sheep during the sacrifice season. Now we have nothing left — not even a goat or sheep to sacrifice or sell in the market,” she said.
Palestinian sources claim that more than 4,000 livestock animals have been stolen this year alone, causing financial losses estimated at over $5 million for local farmers.
Residents also alleged that incidents of harassment and violence by settlers have increased in recent months, including attacks on homes and intimidation of Palestinian families.
Tensions in the occupied West Bank have intensified since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, with Palestinians accusing Israeli settlers of escalating attacks and pressure on local communities.
Israeli authorities have not immediately commented on the allegations.
END/SMA/AJ
