The European Union and the United States have condemned attacks by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, including incidents involving European diplomats, and urged Israeli authorities to take stronger action to prevent further violence.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the EU’s foreign service denounced the latest assaults by settlers, calling for those responsible to be held accountable and for effective steps to stop continued attacks and harassment.
The statement also highlighted violence against Palestinians and journalists, particularly during the ongoing olive harvest season, when communities face heightened concerns over settler attacks.
The EU’s condemnation followed remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed concern over the growing tensions in the occupied West Bank and warned of a potential crisis in the territory.
Speaking to reporters before departing for Uzbekistan, Rubio said Washington was deeply troubled by images of the violence and had repeatedly urged Israel to take stronger measures against settlers involved in attacks.
“We’ve asked the Israelis and continue to ask them to crack down on that stuff,” Rubio said, reiterating the US position that Israeli authorities should do more to prevent such incidents.
The statements from Washington and Brussels add to international pressure on Israel to address settler violence, protect Palestinian communities and ensure the safety of diplomatic personnel and journalists operating in the occupied West Bank.
