A United Nations inquiry has accused Israeli authorities of enabling settler attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The report alleges that financial, military and institutional support contributed to a rise in violence and displacement.
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According to the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Settlers have sharply increased attacks on Palestinian villages and farmland since 2023. The report states that incidents rose by 130%, including attacks involving groups of masked assailants.
The commission further alleged that Israeli security forces often accompanied settlers during such incidents and, in some cases, provided protection. Israeli authorities have not immediately commented on the latest findings.
Israel Rejects Allegations
Israel has consistently rejected accusations that its security forces shield settlers involved in attacks. Officials maintain that such incidents violate military rules and are investigated when they occur.
However, Palestinian and Israeli human rights organizations have argued that investigations rarely result in accountability.
The West Bank remains a key point of dispute in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hundreds of thousands of Israeli settlers live in the territory alongside millions of Palestinians. Most countries and international bodies consider the settlements illegal under international law, while Israel disputes that position.
Report Highlights Civilian Impact
The UN report states that Settler-related violence killed at least seven Palestinians and injured 832 others during the previous year. It also documents alleged cases of assault, harassment and forced displacement.
The commission said violence against Palestinian communities has contributed to broader concerns about land control and displacement in the occupied territory.
In one documented case, the report alleges that The report alleges that attackers abducted two Palestinian children and tied them to a tree before family members intervened.
Findings on Gaza and Hamas
The inquiry also examined developments in Gaza. It expressed concern over alleged abuses committed by Hamas-affiliated forces.
According to the report, investigators documented cases of executions and severe physical violence between 2024 and 2025. The commission said some incidents may constitute war crimes under international law.
Hamas did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the findings.
International Attention on Conflict
The commission referenced a 2024 advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice, which stated that Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are illegal under international law and should be withdrawn.
The report also revisited the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas and other armed groups. According to Israeli authorities, those attacks killed about 1,200 people and resulted in the taking of hostages.
The attacks triggered Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, causing widespread destruction and a large number of casualties
The latest UN findings are expected to add to international debate over accountability, human rights and efforts to resolve the long-running conflict.
