Israeli military forces have prevented activists from delivering humanitarian supplies to Palestinian families in the West Bank town of Qusra, which has been surrounded by settlers for nearly a week. The blockade has affected approximately 15 Palestinians, including two children, who remain confined to three homes in the Ras al-Ain area. Members of the Israeli peace organization Peace Now and international activists attempted to reach the families with food and water but were turned back after authorities declared the region a closed military zone.
Residents trapped in the homes face severe hardship, with water and electricity supplies cut off. According to the United Nations, the families are living in a state of fear and unable to meet basic needs. The situation escalated after Israeli forces ordered residents to vacate their homes earlier this week, but families refused to leave, concerned that abandoning their properties could lead to appropriation. Settlers have erected barriers using stones and attempted to establish an unauthorized outpost near the homes.
Qusra has become a focal point for settler violence in the northern occupied West Bank, with the UN documenting more attacks there than in any other Palestinian community in the region. The incident occurs as Israel’s Defense Minister has proposed transferring enforcement of civilian law involving settlers from military to police authority. Political analysts have questioned the effectiveness of this shift, noting that the national security apparatus maintaining oversight has previously armed and supported settler activities.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
About the Author
