Israeli settlers surround Palestinian homes in West Bank, clash with military

In the West Bank village of Kusra, near Nablus, Israeli settlers have surrounded and blockaded two Palestinian homes since August 9, escalating tensions and leading to confrontations with the Israeli military. The settlers, numbering around 10-15, have set up tents, thrown stones and axes, and are preventing residents from leaving or receiving supplies.

The situation has become dire for the besieged families, the Abu Ridi and Hassan families, who are running out of food and water. Security camera footage shows settlers dismantling fences and blocking roads with stones, trapping seven people, including two girls, inside their homes. The Abu Ridi family reported losing access to water and electricity and appealed for help via social media.

Despite the area being designated as Zone B, under Palestinian administrative control and shared Israeli security authority, the settlers' actions have persisted. The Israeli military initially intervened, clashing with settlers and later withdrawing, leaving the settlers to continue their actions. Video footage obtained by the BBC shows Israeli forces using tear gas and stun grenades against settlers who had joined the confrontation.

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illegal, reprehensible, and unacceptable act

An Israeli military spokesperson condemned the unauthorized entry and occupation of Palestinian homes as "illegal, reprehensible, and unacceptable." However, reports indicate that Israeli soldiers were seen praying with the settlers upon arrival, and the homeowner Hassan stated that soldiers ignored the affected family and warmly greeted the settlers. The military later announced punitive measures against armed individuals found with settlers, while also stating they had removed tents and were evicting civilians.

Kusra residents report that settlers are establishing outposts on the village outskirts and encroaching on their land. They accuse settlers of previously killing a villager and assaulting his father, damaging crops by grazing sheep, and throwing gas canisters and firebombs at homes. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has repeatedly downplayed concerns about settler violence and expressed support for those accused of attacks. Defense Minister Israel Katz has revoked the military's authority to issue detention orders against settlers, a measure previously used to curb extremist violence.

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the soldiers warmly greeted the settlers and prayed with them.