In brief
In Qusra, Palestinian households have been trapped in a siege that began on Sunday after settlers obstructed roads and severed utilities. Activists brought water and food to the homes but were prevented from delivering supplies directly. Israeli forces erected a tent on the property, later removed it, and declared the area a closed military zone, citing protection of residents. The siege underscores the ongoing tensions and rising settler violence in the occupied West Bank.
Qusra, West Bank – Activists have attempted to deliver supplies to the families living in houses besieged by Israeli settlers during a week‑long blockade that began on Sunday. Two Palestinian families have been trapped since that day, with utilities and road access cut off by the settlers.
The protest group placed water, food and emergency kits outside the homes, but Israeli security forces prevented direct delivery and evicted several residents. An Israeli soldier’s statement that the area was a “closed military zone” led to a claim that civilians could not enter, though prosecutors note the aid could still be left outside.
During a later operation on Friday, a settler camp was erected in the village. Police and Israeli soldiers used tear gas and stun grenades in confrontations, later removing the tent while citing protection of locals. Palestinian accounts indicate that the settlers are attempting to drive the community out permanently.
According to the United Nations, more than 6,000 Palestinians have been displaced from 127 West Bank communities since early 2023—nearly half of those people are children. The settlers’ illegal expansion and the lack of accountability remain a critical concern for the region’s stability.
