EU considers measures amid rise in Israeli settler attacks

A sharp increase in attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians has been documented across the West Bank over the past month, according to data compiled by human‑rights groups and local authorities. The figures show more than 150 incidents, including stone‑throwing, vandalism of homes and agricultural property, and physical assaults, representing a rise of roughly 40 % compared with the same period last year. The majority of the incidents occurred in the Hebron and Nablus governorates, where settlers reportedly entered villages, set fire to crops, and damaged vehicles. Israeli police have opened investigations into a number of cases, but critics say arrests remain limited and that many victims have not received compensation.

The surge follows heightened tensions linked to ongoing settlement expansion and recent clashes near contested holy sites. Palestinian officials have condemned the attacks as part of a broader pattern of intimidation, while Israeli government spokespeople emphasized the need to protect all civilians and pledged to increase security patrols in affected areas. International observers have called for independent monitoring to verify the allegations and to ensure accountability. The escalation underscores the fragile security situation in the occupied territories and the challenges facing both Israeli and Palestinian communities in maintaining public order.