Israel Deploys Troops as Settler Violence Hits West Bank

The Israel Defense Forces deployed additional combat troops to the West Bank, focusing on the Ramallah area, following a sharp increase in nationalist settler violence against Palestinians. The attacks coincided with the annual olive harvest, with the Palestinian Commission Against the Wall and Settlements documenting 34 attacks on Friday alone. Settlers used batons, slingshots, and live ammunition to force farmers off their land in Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin, Tulkarm, Hebron, and Masafer Yatta.

Violence resulted in injuries to at least 19 Palestinians, including children aged eight and 12. Property damage included the burning of olive trees and five vehicles, including a civil defense rescue vehicle. Two foreign journalists were injured during the clashes, including Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine, who was assaulted near the village of Abu Falah. Reports indicate some attacks occurred under the protection of or in view of Israeli forces, who also deployed tear gas.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the violence against journalists and stated those responsible would be held accountable, though he cautioned against using the incidents to demonize settlers. Simultaneously, security officials are managing increased warnings of terrorist attacks, including the recent arrest of a four-person cell in the Jenin area. A separate confrontation near Beit Lid left an Israeli civilian injured.