West Bank Siege: Israeli Troops Pray With Settlers as Siege Dragged On
For more than a week, Palestinian residents in Qusra have been surrounded by settlers in the occupied West Bank, facing blockades on essential supplies and attracting global criticism. Despite multiple interventions by Israeli forces, the settlers remain, illustrating a consistent lack of action influenced by governmental backing for settlements and settler beliefs within the military. The U.S. has intervened, as one of its citizens is among those affected, urging Israel to take measures. Although the military detained one Israeli and took down some settler tents, no evictions were executed. An incident where soldiers were seen praying with settlers has led to promises of disciplinary measures. Analysts point out that governmental support for extremists hinders military responses to settler aggression.
Key facts
- Israeli troops failed for over a week to evict settlers from Qusra in the occupied West Bank.
- A small group of settlers besieged Palestinian homes and blocked supplies near Nablus.
- The Israeli military is widely regarded as the most powerful armed force in the Middle East.
- Experts attribute the military's inaction to government backing of the settlement movement and settler ideology within the ranks.
- The United States requested Israeli action because one of the besieged Palestinians holds US citizenship.
- The military response included detention of one Israeli and dismantling of settlers' tents.
- Some soldiers were filmed praying with the settlers, prompting a promise of disciplinary action.
- The siege drew both international and domestic condemnation.
Entities
Institutions
- Israeli military
- United States
- Israeli government
Locations
- West Bank
- Qusra
- Nablus
- Middle East
- Israel
- United States