Israeli Settlers Attack European Diplomats in West Bank
Masked Israeli settlers attacked European diplomats, including a French mayor, and Catholic representatives in the West Bank village of Taybeh. The attacks occurred during a visit to formalize a twinning agreement and participate in the olive harvest, prompting condemnation from Belgium and France.
What happened
- On Saturday, masked settlers attacked European diplomats and a French mayor in the occupied West Bank village of Taybeh.
- Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot reported that the attack targeted the Belgium consul general, French and Polish diplomats, and Catholic representatives.
- Bernard Baudoux, the French mayor, described being struck with metal bars and kicked before being thrown to the ground.
- Witnesses reported that settlers surrounded a diplomatic vehicle with off-road vehicles and demanded identification, smashing a window.
- Israeli police opened an investigation into the alleged assault.
- Israeli authorities stated that the visit was not coordinated with them and that no soldiers were present.
- Amidst concerns about a coordinated smear campaign, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the reports.
- French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for the arrest of those responsible and emphasized the obligation to ensure the safety of civilian populations under international law.
- The incident occurred during the annual olive harvest, a period of heightened tensions and violence in the region.
Original reporting
- Sky News: Israeli settlers attack European diplomats and French mayor in West Bank, Belgium says
2026-10-17T17:38:00+00:00 - PBS NewsHour: Masked settlers attack European diplomats in the occupied West Bank
2026-10-17T16:28:11+00:00 - Deutsche Welle: West Bank: Israeli settlers attack EU diplomats, French mayor
2026-10-17T16:29:00+00:00 - New York Times World: Israeli Settlers Attack Palestinians and European Officials in West Bank
2026-10-18T07:36:55+00:00