US Congressman Describe Harrowing Detention by Armed Settlers in West Bank

Armed Settlers Detain US Congressman

US Congressman Ro Khanna recounts a harrowing incident during a recent visit to the Israel-occupied West Bank, where armed Israeli settlers detained him and other members of his delegation. Speaking with Reuters from a Palestinian village, Khanna detailed how he and his group were surrounded by young settlers who were carrying US-made M4 rifles while visiting an area that had been destroyed by settler attacks.

According to Khanna, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which are partially funded by US military aid, did not intervene when called. The congressman emphasized the arrogance displayed by both the young settlers and the IDF soldiers who arrived on the scene. “And these hoodlums… detain us. They block off the road. And then they call the IDF and the IDF is on their side, not on the side of the Americans,” Khanna said.

The incident took place at a village that had experienced repeated attacks by Israeli settlers following Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023. The IDF responded only after being reported that settlers were obstructing vehicles near the location.

Khanna’s account underscores the daily challenges faced by Palestinians living under occupation and highlights the need for accountability and an end to what he perceives as impunity for settlers and their supporters within the IDF.

The broader context of the occupied West Bank is one of economic hardship, with more than 700,000 Israelis living in settlements across the territory. The UN considers these settlements illegal, and Israel has faced international criticism over violence by settlers. Since the start of the conflict, restrictions on movement have led to significant job losses among Palestinians.

Khanna’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the daily realities endured by Palestinians under occupation and highlights the complexities of his position in both domestic and foreign policy debates.

Sources: The Guardian, BBC