UN alarmed by worsening West Bank situation, condemns settler violence

The United Nations voiced alarm over the "rapidly deteriorating" situation on the occupied West Bank, condemning a surge in violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities. Ramiz Alakbarov, the deputy UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, told the Security Council that escalating violence in the past week has resulted in civilian deaths, displacement, and property damage.

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In the past week, escalating violence on the West Bank has caused civilian casualties, displacement, property damage, and growing insecurity in affected communities.

"Attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian communities, homes, religious sites, and civilian infrastructure continue at an alarming rate," Alakbarov stated. He highlighted a recent incident where settlers attacked the village of Till, resulting in the deaths of four Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers. Following this, the Israeli army conducted raids in Nablus and other areas, arresting dozens of Palestinians.

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Attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian communities, homes, religious sites, and civilian infrastructure continue at an alarming rate.

Palestinian Authority officials reported another settler attack on Sunday, where two mosques were set ablaze in the West Bank. Alakbarov called on the Israeli government to implement immediate and effective measures to halt settler violence, protect Palestinian communities, and hold perpetrators accountable. He also condemned Palestinian attacks against Israelis and urged Palestinians to reject violence.

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The Israeli government to take immediate and effective measures to stop the violence by settlers, to protect Palestinian communities, and to ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable.