Disputed fire by ancient church in Holy Land sparks diplomatic, religious fallout

Israeli police late Monday dismissed reports alleging that Jewish settlers set fire to the archaeological site of the Church of St. George in the village of Taybeh in the West Bank, calling them "factually incorrect," lacking evidence and potentially misleading to the public.

According to police, a probe was launched last Thursday by a specialized team within the Judea and Samaria Central Investigations Unit (YAMAR) under the direction of the district commander. An internal committee was...