Israeli settlers attack activists blocking access to Palestinian farmland

Israeli settlers confronted a foreign activist and a second individual on Tuesday while attempting to block access to a stretch of Palestinian farmland near the West Bank settlement of Itamar, according to eyewitnesses and statements from the activists’ organization. The confrontation escalated when the settlers allegedly struck the foreign activist, identified as a European citizen, and the accompanying man, causing both to sustain injuries that required medical attention. Local police arrived at the scene after the incident was reported, but the settlers reportedly left the area before authorities could intervene.

Human rights groups have condemned the attack, describing it as part of a broader pattern of settler violence aimed at restricting Palestinian agricultural activity. Israeli security officials opened an investigation into the assault, while the Palestinian Authority called for increased protection of civilians working the land. The incident underscores ongoing tensions over land use in the occupied territories, with both sides awaiting further developments from the pending inquiry.