Settlers Force Palestinian Family From West Bank Home After Army Escort

Israeli settlers forced a Palestinian family out of their home in the West Bank village of Jalud after soldiers had escorted the owner back, according to accounts and video footage of the incident.

Mahmoud Tubasi, the homeowner, said troops initially brought him to the property, but rioting settlers compelled him and his family to leave in a military vehicle. He said he still cannot reach the house, which settlers have besieged for two months.

More than a hundred settlers scuffled with Israeli soldiers during the overnight operation. Israel's military acknowledged that the mission to return the family "was not completed" and said three officers were injured by settlers who threw rocks, blocked roads and set Palestinian property on fire.

Footage recorded by the family on Monday, when they briefly gained access, showed extensive damage: a wall knocked down almost completely, floor tiles removed and windows smashed. It was not clear when the damage occurred.

Israeli police said they arrested three settlers suspected of taking part in the riot. The violence drew condemnation from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Gidon Saar and President Isaac Herzog.

The episode highlights the difficulty the Israeli military has faced in containing the latest wave of settler violence. Rights groups have accused the military of colluding with the settlers.