Key facts
- Israeli settlers have besieged three Palestinian families in their homes in Qusra, West Bank.
- Water and electricity have been cut off to the besieged homes.
- Residents allege the siege is an attempt to seize land.
- Israeli soldiers have reportedly been slow to intervene and disperse the settlers.
- The Israeli military announced plans to deploy an additional infantry battalion to the area.
Israeli settlers have besieged three Palestinian families in their homes in the occupied West Bank town of Qusra, cutting off essential utilities and preventing access.
The siege, which began on Sunday, has left residents without water or electricity. Aisha Abu Rida, one of those trapped, stated that despite the conditions, they are determined to remain in their homes, describing the settlers' actions as an attempt to displace them.
Residents and family members have expressed frustration with the response of Israeli soldiers, alleging they have failed to effectively intervene and disperse the settlers. Some reports suggest soldiers were seen praying alongside the settlers. Loai Ridi, an American-Palestinian whose brother is among those trapped, noted that his family is relying on limited supplies and a temporary solar power system.
The Israeli military has acknowledged the reports of settlers seizing homes and land, calling the activity 'illegal, reprehensible and unacceptable.' The military announced plans to deploy an additional infantry battalion to the area to 'strengthen order and operational control.'
Qusra is located in Area B of the West Bank, which is under nominal Palestinian civil administration. The village has experienced recent attacks, including the burning of a mosque. A similar siege in the neighboring village of Jalud reportedly forced two families off their land before settlers occupied the property.