Israeli settlers attack Palestinian harvest, journalist severely injured
About 80 settlers attacked an olive harvest in Abu Falah, burning trees and injuring two people including American photojournalist Heidi Levine.
Dozens of armed Israeli settlers attacked a terraced olive grove in Abu Falah village in the occupied West Bank on Thursday. About 80 settlers carried gas canisters, took positions above the field, and used slings to throw rocks at Palestinian villagers.
Palestinians threw rocks back to defend themselves. Israeli military jeeps arrived but the attack continued.
Soldiers fired tear gas at the Palestinians. At least one settler fired live ammunition.
American photojournalist Heidi Levine was knocked to the ground and kicked by multiple settlers. She suffered cuts across her body, a broken rib, and hand injuries needing surgery.
Another person was hospitalized. The Israeli military said soldiers fired warning shots.
They said this came after deciding that a person posed a threat. Settler violence in the West Bank has grown sharply this year.
There have been at least 170 attacks since late September.
- About 80 Israeli settlers
- Attackers
- Abu Falah village, occupied West Bank
- Location
- At least 170 since September 27
- Attacks pattern
Why it mattersAn international journalist was injured while covering the story. This draws global attention to what is happening.
AustraliaAustralian news outlets and journalists covering the Middle East conflict may face similar risks when documenting settler violence in the occupied territories.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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