Settlers block IDF helicopter pad for evacuation of wounded
Extremist settlers established an illegal outpost on an IDF military landing pad near the Tapuah junction in Samaria, disabling it for several hours. The pad is used for evacuating the wounded by helicopter. The IDF called the incident serious and emphasized the inadmissibility of blocking a critical facility.
Several days ago, a serious incident occurred in Judea and Samaria: extremist settlers established an illegal outpost on an IDF military landing pad near the Tapuah junction. The pad is used for evacuating the wounded by helicopter in emergencies, as well as for landing forces involved in operational activities. Just a few weeks ago, Itamar Cohen, injured in a terrorist attack, was evacuated from there. The installation of mobile homes disabled the pad for several hours, limiting the IDF's capabilities. The IDF emphasized that they take this incident very seriously, stating it is unacceptable for soldiers to have to deal with stopping illegal construction on a critical facility. In recent days, security forces have been evacuating illegal outposts established by Jewish extremists. On the night of August 20, an outpost near the village of Dir Istiya was evacuated, after which riots began: settlers blocked the road with stones, threw stones at Palestinian cars and soldiers. Three settlers attempted to steal a confiscated tractor. Later, about 60 extremists set up a barricade at the Emanuel junction and attempted to set fire to Palestinian olive groves. Four suspects were arrested. The article also reports that the IDF postponed arrests of Palestinians suspected of terrorism due to the redeployment of forces to prevent clashes.