A Palestinian American, whose home in the occupied West Bank has been under siege by Israeli settlers for over a week, traveled to the region on Monday. He joined family members who have been defending the property. The situation in Qusra has involved settlers surrounding several Palestinian houses, preventing residents from leaving.
The United States has condemned the siege. The Israeli military has deployed troops with a stated aim of maintaining order. Recent months have seen increased violence in the West Bank. Settlers, supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government, have intensified attacks on Palestinian towns and villages. These actions include harassment and setting homes, mosques, and fields ablaze.
According to Palestinian health officials, Israeli soldiers and settlers have killed 87 Palestinians this year. Palestinians have killed three Israelis, including two in clashes in the West Bank village of Tell last month.
Loui Ridi, an Ohio-based homeowner, arrived in Israel as settlers remained active near Qusra. His brother’s video footage showed settlers driving ATVs and speaking with soldiers. Ridi had monitored the events via home security cameras. Filled with frustration over the siege, he remarked to reporters, “I can’t sleep. I can’t let the settlers steal my house while I was watching.”
On Monday evening, Ridi arrived in Qusra, reuniting first with his mother and sister before reaching his home. His brother, Qusai Abu Rida, and his teenage son had stayed to protect the property. Despite the neighborhood being a closed military zone, video footage showed soldiers interacting amicably with settlers.
Ridi expressed his frustration, stating, “I should be able to go to my house freely, anytime I want. It is a frustration and a nightmare for the entire family.”
Metz reported from Tel Aviv, Israel.
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