Chicago – August 13, 2026
Palestinian families in the occupied West Bank village of Qusra remained trapped inside their homes Thursday after Israeli settlers reportedly blocked roads, cut water and electricity supplies, and prevented residents from receiving food and medicine.
The siege began over the weekend around three homes on a hilltop near Nablus. Residents said settlers erected a tent, obstructed access routes, threw stones, and damaged nearby walls. The United Nations said approximately 15 Palestinians, including two children, were unable to meet their basic needs.
Israeli troops later entered the area and took positions inside several Palestinian homes, according to Reuters. Local officials said families were moved into one residence as security forces attempted to prevent further confrontation.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the incident in unusually strong terms, calling it a “horrific act of terror” and describing those responsible as “Israeli terrorists.” He said the U.S. Embassy had coordinated with Israeli military and police authorities to address the siege.
The episode has intensified international concern over rising settler violence and restrictions affecting Palestinian communities across the West Bank.
