Israeli settlers attack AFP journalists in West Bank, injuring five

Israeli settlers attacked Agence France-Presse journalists in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, injuring at least five people and damaging their vehicles. The assault occurred while the journalists were covering rising tensions with Palestinians near Bethlehem.

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The journalists have been attacked with stones and sticks, and their vehicles have been damaged.

Three AFP journalists had gone to Jannatah village to report on solidarity visits organized by Israeli activists supporting Palestinians who have faced harassment from settlers. These settlers had recently blocked a local road. Following an altercation between settlers and activists, the Israeli military declared the area a "closed military zone" and ordered the journalists to leave.

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The Israeli military ordered the journalists to leave what it called a 'closed military zone'.

As the journalists departed, two more cars carrying settlers arrived. Many of the settlers, including children, threw stones at the journalists and activists. One journalist narrowly avoided a stone but was then hit on the chin with a stick by a child, sustaining a minor injury. The journalists' two vehicles, parked at the scene, had their rear windshields smashed and tires punctured. Activists' vehicles also suffered similar damage.

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The settlers, many of whom were children, threw stones at the journalists and activists.

The Palestinian Red Crescent reported treating five people for injuries. AFP journalists also witnessed at least one Israeli activist being taken away by a Palestinian ambulance. During the confrontation, an Israeli soldier briefly seized a journalist's camera before returning it. An army spokesperson stated this seizure is under investigation. Israeli police have joined the military to gather evidence on the vehicle damage, and a police investigation has been opened.

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The temporary confiscation of this camera is currently being verified.