Video Shows Israeli Troops With Settlers During West Bank Village Siege

Newly released security footage from the West Bank village of Qusra shows men in Israeli military uniforms interacting with settlers outside the homes of Palestinian families. The video, recorded last Sunday, depicts the soldiers drinking and smoking alongside the settlers, who have surrounded the residences and prevented occupants from leaving.

Six days on, the standoff continues. Qusai Abu Rida, trapped inside one of the homes, said settlers remain in the valley below, even after Israeli forces dismantled a tent they had re-erected near his door on Friday. No arrests or detentions have been reported.

The Israeli army, in a statement earlier this week, said any soldiers or reservists found involved in such incidents would face disciplinary action. The siege has drawn criticism from Israeli and Palestinian voices, as well as the U.S. ambassador to Israel. One of the three affected homes belongs to a Palestinian American.

Violence against Palestinians in the West Bank has been rising. Palestinian officials report nearly 1,500 settler attacks this year, with 87 Palestinians killed by settlers or Israeli forces.

Amid the ongoing crisis, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to transfer enforcement powers over Israeli civilians in the West Bank from the military to police, placing it under far-right National Security Minister Ben Gvir. Rights advocates condemned the move, warning it could further reduce accountability for violence against Palestinians.