Settlers Steal Palestinian Family's Sheep Ahead of Eid al-Adha in West Bank
In Masafer Yatta, located near Hebron, Israeli settlers took around 45 sheep from a Palestinian family just prior to Eid al-Adha. The incident transpired early Thursday morning, with the settlers first removing the family's guard dogs to evade detection. Rasheed, the sheep's owner, expressed that the animals were essential for her livelihood, leaving her without means to support herself and her husband, who is battling cancer. The Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture reported that since the beginning of 2026, settlers have stolen approximately 4,000 livestock. Eid al-Adha, a significant Islamic festival, celebrates the peak of the haj pilgrimage, during which Muslims sacrifice animals in remembrance of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son, often sharing the meat with those in need.
Key facts
- Israeli settlers stole 45 sheep from a Palestinian family in Masafer Yatta.
- The theft occurred before dawn on Thursday.
- Settlers first stole the family's guard dogs to avoid detection.
- Rasheed, the owner, said the sheep were her livelihood.
- Rasheed's husband has cancer and she has no income for treatment.
- About 4,000 head of livestock have been stolen by settlers since the start of 2026.
- The Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture reported the livestock theft figure.
- Eid al-Adha is a major Islamic festival involving animal sacrifice.
Entities
Institutions
- Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture
Locations
- West Bank
- Masafer Yatta
- Hebron
- Nablus
- Israel