A Palestinian woman and a television news team sustained injuries after being assaulted by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, amid escalating tensions in the region.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the violence as the actions of “a handful of rioters.”
The attack occurred in the Palestinian town of Jalud, near Nablus, when four NBC News team members were interviewing Aida Ahmed Abdullah and her family.
According to Abdullah, the team was forced to leave their home by settlers before the assault took place while they were moving toward the location. An Israeli-registered vehicle reversed up the hill toward them, whereupon at least four masked individuals emerged and attacked with sticks and rocks.
“They jumped out, beat us, then jumped back into the car,” reported NBC News correspondent Matt Bradley, who sustained two arm injuries and received treatment at a local clinic.
Abdullah, 51, was evacuated by the Red Crescent for medical care, with her injuries later confirmed as non-life-threatening. Two additional team members also received treatment for their injuries.
“Suddenly a car came to us,” said producer Lawahez Jabari, noting that the attackers carried sticks and displayed a firearm, though it was not discharged.
Camera operator Khaldoon Eid expressed surprise at the violence occurring in a village setting, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the assault.
The incident adds to a series of violent confrontations reported in the area on Saturday, including an attack in nearby Qusra where Palestinian workers were pepper-sprayed by masked settlers.
Israeli security forces confirmed reports of clashes involving stone-throwing and civilian involvement, detailing operations to remove armed individuals barricaded inside a Palestinian residence and confiscate their vehicles.
“IDF soldiers and Border Police continue deploying in Jalud and Qusra to prevent further disturbances and restore order,” the statement noted.
The incident follows earlier this month when settler groups blocked supply access to Palestinian homes on Nablus’ outskirts, prompting international condemnation including criticism from the U.S. ambassador.
Despite ongoing Israeli military presence, settler activity remains active in surrounding areas.
Netanyahu reiterated condemnation of “criminal acts” while accusing the attackers of undermining public order and Israel’s global reputation.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 76 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank between July 2023 and July 2024, compared to three Israeli fatalities during the same period.
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