Kathmandu— Residents of the West Bank village of Madama are living in fear of further violence after Israeli Member of Parliament Zvi Sukkot destroyed a memorial commemorating Palestinians killed in past conflicts, using a sledgehammer as Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldiers stood by without intervening. The incident occurred Tuesday during what was initially presented as a routine tour of West Bank villages, but quickly devolved into an act of vandalism that has drawn widespread condemnation and raised questions about the IDF’s role. Sukkot, a far-right lawmaker from the Religious Zionist party, justified his actions by claiming the memorial glorified terrorism, while villagers dispute the military's claim they were unaware of his intentions.

MP’s Actions Spark Outrage

Zvi Sukkot, known for previous confrontations with Palestinians, traveled to Madama, south of Nablus, under the guise of a tour. However, he instead produced a sledgehammer and proceeded to deface the memorial, which honors Palestinians killed in conflicts over the last century. He asserted that the monument “glorified terrorism” and needed to be removed, suggesting it could inspire future generations towards violence.

Videos posted by Sukkot himself show him striking the memorial while his IDF escort remained nearby without intervening.

IDF Claims Deception

Following the widespread condemnation of the incident, the IDF stated that Sukkot had requested protection for a tour but misled them regarding his plans. The military insists that he produced the sledgehammer and attacked the monument without authorization.

The IDF maintains the act was neither authorized nor anticipated.

Villagers Dispute Military Account

Residents of Madama reject the IDF’s assertion that soldiers were unaware of Sukkot's intentions, citing a history of confrontations with Israeli troops and settlers. They claim army patrols had been present in the village just hours before the incident, deploying tear gas and stun grenades.

Locals express deep distrust of the military’s explanation and fear it signals an escalation of violence.

Heightened Fears for Future

The destruction of the memorial has left villagers feeling vulnerable and anxious about potential future attacks. The incident is seen as a deliberate act of provocation that could incite further unrest in the region.

The IDF investigation into the incident continues, but residents remain skeptical and fear increased tensions in the West Bank.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.