The European Union and United Kingdom are demanding Israel halt a surge in violence by Jewish settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. This escalation has occurred since the start of Israel's war with Iran.
Six Palestinians have been killed in settler attacks over the past 11 days, according to the United Nations. The UK expressed dismay over the killings, while the EU deemed the violence unacceptable. Both blocs urged Israeli authorities to ensure accountability and prevent further attacks.
Israel's military condemned the violence and stated it is working to bring perpetrators to justice. Settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, occupied by Israel since the 1967 war, house approximately 700,000 Jews and are considered illegal under international law. An estimated 3.3 million Palestinians reside alongside them.
Recent incidents include the killing of three Palestinians in Khirbet Abu Falah on Sunday during a settler raid. Witnesses reported armed settlers opening fire on residents. The Palestinian health ministry stated two were shot dead, and a third died from tear gas inhalation fired by Israeli security forces. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed security forces were dispatched and a criminal investigation is underway.
Another incident on Saturday saw a 28-year-old man shot dead by settlers near the South Hebron Hills, with his brother seriously wounded. The IDF indicated a reserve soldier opened fire during a confrontation. Previously, settlers reportedly shot and killed two brothers in the village of Qaryut.
Israeli human rights groups report 109 separate incidents of settler violence in the first 10 days of the conflict with Iran. These include shootings, assaults, and property damage. Yesh Din warned these attacks, often with state backing and impunity, aim to forcibly displace Palestinians and annex the West Bank.
The Palestinian Authority's Vice-President called the attacks "settler terrorism" and urged international punitive measures. The commander of the IDF's Central Command stressed zero tolerance for civilians taking the law into their own hands and pledged swift justice. The UK consulate-general urged the IDF to match its statements with accountability, while the EU warned that impunity risks further violence and urged Israel to protect the Palestinian population.