Palestinians Set Joseph’s Tomb on Fire

Palestinian protesters set fire to the tomb of biblical patriarch Joseph in the town of Nablus on Thursday night. There were no reports of injuries, but the tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews. “The burning and desecration of Joseph’s Tomb last night is a blatant violation and contradiction of the basic value of freedom of worship,” an Israeli Defense Forces spokesman said Friday. “The IDF will take all measures to bring the perpetrators of this despicable act to justice, restore the site to its previous condition, and ensure that the freedom of worship returns to Joseph’s Tomb.” Palestine Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas condemned the attack and promised to repair the damage.