Israel not doing enough to quell settler violence, senior White House official says - report

The United States believes Israel is failing to adequately prevent violent settler attacks in the West Bank, according to a senior White House official cited by KAN News. The official intends to raise this concern with the Prime Minister's Office, seeking an explanation for the security establishment's inability to quell the escalating violence.

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The United States believes Israel is not doing enough to prevent violent settler attacks in the West Bank.

This assessment comes as clashes continue in the West Bank village of Qusra. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visited the area Wednesday to assess the situation, which involved IDF troops attempting to lift a siege imposed by settlers on Palestinian homes. The troops encountered resistance from settlers, leading to clashes, and the siege remained in place as of Wednesday evening.

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The official plans to discuss the issue with the Prime Minister's Office and expects it to explain why the security establishment is unable to quell the violence.

Zamir has directed the military to intensify efforts to restore order and strengthen operational control in the region. He ordered an additional active-duty infantry battalion to reinforce the sector, with further reserve forces available if needed. The operation is being conducted in coordination with the Israel Police and the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) to restore order, maintain security, and bring perpetrators to justice.

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Zamir instructed the military to continue efforts to restore order and strengthen operational control in the area, while working to prevent further serious incidents.

In addition to deploying more troops, Zamir instructed forces across the West Bank to review their conduct and use-of-force policies in such incidents. The military emphasized that alongside counter-terrorism efforts and settlement defense, forces must adhere to strict rules of engagement. Earlier Wednesday, settlers had clashed with the military while attempting to maintain a blockade on two homes in Qusra, dismantling fences and blocking roads before the area was declared a closed military zone. Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth oversaw the operation and urged settlers to leave and cease interfering with military operations.

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The military also said Zamir had instructed forces throughout the West Bank to review the rules governing their conduct and use of force in such incidents.