Arson and Threats at 5th?Century Church and Cemetery in Taybeh

On July 7, 2025, Israeli settlers allegedly carried out an arson attack near the historic Church of St. George—one of the oldest Christian sites in the West Bank—and the adjacent cemetery in the Christian town of Taybeh. According to local church leaders and Vatican News reporting, the fire was ignited close to the sacred site and caused material damage. The attack was followed by condemnations from Christian clerics, who described it as a direct threat to religious heritage.

Church leaders, including priests from the Latin, Greek Orthodox, and Melkite communities, issued statements urging Israeli authorities to investigate and protect vulnerable religious sites. There has been little public reporting on subsequent police action or arrests related to the incident, raising concerns about enforcement and accountability.