Recent attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank have surged, with over 700 incidents in the first half of 2023 alone. While the Israeli government condemns such violence, prosecutions remain rare. The killing of a 20-year-old American tourist by settlers sparked outrage and an investigation, but the low conviction rate for settler violence raises concerns about impunity. Observers suggest a coordinated effort to displace Palestinians, employing tactics like damaging crops and inciting conflict. The U.S. Treasury Department has designated a settler group as a violent extremist organization.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.