Israeli Settlers Surround Qusra Home, Trapping 4 Palestinians as Forces Seal Village
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Aug 29
Israeli Settlers Surround Qusra Home, Trapping 4 Palestinians as Forces Seal Village
3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Aug 29
Summary
At least four Palestinians were trapped inside a home in Qusra on Saturday as Israeli settlers surrounded it, set fire to nearby land and blocked access for residents trying to reinforce houses.
One injured resident was awaiting evacuation as ambulances sought access, while local journalists and the mayor said Israeli forces backed the settlers, tried to arrest besieged Palestinians and declared the area a closed military zone.
Qusra has faced a month-long escalation: since August 9, settlers have besieged three homes in Ras al-Ain, cutting water, electricity and supplies, and residents say approvals for food can take three to four days.
Three new roadblocks erected on Wednesday further isolated homes on the hilltop, adding to a gate at Qusra's main entrance that forces Palestinians onto alternate routes often blocked by Israeli forces.
The Israeli military said it removed Israeli rioters from the home, confiscated their vehicles and would stay to restore order, amid a broader rise in West Bank settler attacks since the Gaza war began in October 2023.