Israeli settlers have besieged two Palestinian families in their homes in the occupied West Bank village of Qusra since Sunday, cutting off water and power as food supplies dwindled. About a dozen settlers remain at the site after Israeli security forces withdrew on Wednesday, having earlier dismantled a tent and confiscated vehicles. The IDF condemned the outpost as illegal and unacceptable, and the military's Central Command chief visited the area to speak with the families.
Settlers blocked access to the properties, preventing journalists, ambulances, and villagers from reaching the residents. Israeli forces used tear gas and stun grenades during confrontations with settlers on Wednesday, and authorities declared the area a closed military zone. Qusay Abu Ridi described the situation as critical, with the families completely isolated.
The standoff reflects a broader surge in settler violence since October 2023 that the UN says has displaced thousands of Palestinians. Rights group Yesh Din appealed for protection of the besieged residents, while Israel's UN ambassador stated settlements would continue to grow.