IDF denies blocking aid as settlers maintain siege in occupied West Bank
Tensions escalate in Qusra as the Israel Defence Forces remove a settler tent and dispute allegations that soldiers prevented direct handover of food and water to besieged Palestinian families.
Activists attempted to deliver essential supplies to two Palestinian families trapped in their homes in Qusra, in the occupied West Bank, after Israeli settlers blocked access and severed utilities since Sunday. The group managed to leave food and water near one of the properties, but residents stated that Israeli forces prevented the direct handover, forcing the aid to be left outside.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) denied allegations that soldiers obstructed the delivery of aid. In a statement, the military clarified that Qusra is a closed military zone, meaning Israeli civilians, some of whom were present with the activists, were not permitted to enter. However, the IDF insisted that the transfer of aid to Palestinian homes was not prevented and that soldiers were instructed to ensure residents remained in their homes.
The military also addressed the presence of settlers in the area, stating that IDF soldiers removed a tent erected by civilians on Friday while protecting local residents. This action followed an operation on Thursday to disperse settlers, during which approximately a dozen Palestinian households, including members of the Abu Ridi and Hassan families, were ordered to vacate their properties.
Qusra Mayor Abdul Azim Wadi reported that Israeli forces were using some of the vacated Palestinian houses as barracks. The IDF described the settlers' actions as deplorable and unacceptable, with a spokesperson confirming that the government would investigate and arrest those responsible. The military also noted that the first soldiers to arrive at the site had prayed with the settlers, an act it said would be disciplined.
Confrontations between Israeli security forces, border police, and a large crowd of settlers occurred during an attempt to dislodge the group on Wednesday. Palestinian security camera footage shared with the BBC showed the use of tear gas and stun grenades. The situation in Qusra has drawn attention to the relative impunity of settlers and the challenges Israeli forces face in managing rising settler violence.
Since January 2023, the United Nations has recorded that 127 Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank have experienced full or partial displacement, affecting more than 6,390 Palestinians. In 2026 alone, approximately 3,800 Palestinians have been displaced due to settler violence, demolitions, and evictions, with nearly half of them being children.
Settlements are illegal under international law, yet the Israeli government has promoted their recent rapid expansion. In the past, settlers have forced Palestinians out of their homes and seized properties with the stated aim of emptying areas of Palestinian residents, a pattern that continues to complicate governance and security in the region.
