Israel arrests 10 in inquiry into West Bank settler attacks on diplomats, journalist
The arrests follow EU demands for accountability after masked Israeli settlers assaulted a European delegation visiting Palestinian olive growers near Taybeh.
The Lead
Israeli police arrested 10 people on October 19 in an investigation into West Bank settler violence that included attacks on European diplomats and a US photojournalist, one day after the EU demanded accountability and measures to prevent further assaults.
Key Facts
- Masked settlers attacked the delegation near Taybeh on October 17.
- The EU condemned the violence on October 18 and demanded full accountability.
- Israeli police announced 10 arrests on October 19 but did not identify the suspects or specify their alleged roles.
Article Body
Masked settlers confronted the delegation near the predominantly Christian Palestinian village of Taybeh on October 17. The group included Belgium’s consul general, French and Polish diplomats and Catholic representatives visiting during the olive harvest. A Belgian diplomatic vehicle was damaged, while French Mayor Bernard Baudoux said attackers struck and kicked him.
Israel’s military confirmed the attack and called it a severe act of violence, while saying the visit had not been coordinated and no soldiers were present. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the attackers, and police opened an investigation.
The EU said October 18 that Israel must ensure full accountability and prevent violence against Palestinians, journalists and foreign representatives. Police subsequently said the 10 suspects had been taken for questioning and that the military, border police and Shin Bet participated in the investigation. Authorities have not announced charges or established publicly which suspects, if any, are accused of assaulting the diplomats.
What to Watch
The critical next signal is whether investigators file charges specifically tied to the Taybeh assault. Police said Monday’s operation also covered alleged violations of military closure orders and illegal construction, leaving each suspect’s connection to the attacks unclear.