Israeli troops have forced two Palestinian families to leave their besieged West Bank homes, escalating a violent settler campaign that has drawn international condemnation. The military action in Qusra village follows days of siege and settler intimidation, leaving residents in fear and uncertainty.
Background of the Siege
The ordeal began on Sunday when Israeli settlers and soldiers set up a tent blocking the entrance to three homes on the edge of Qusra. They severed water and electricity supplies and prevented an ambulance from reaching a sick toddler, creating a humanitarian crisis that quickly gained global attention.
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Amid mounting international pressure, Major General Avi Bluth, commander of Israeli troops in the occupied West Bank, visited Qusra on Wednesday. He personally promised to evacuate the settlers and end the siege. However, his troops only removed the tent, leaving the settlers' bedding and equipment behind. A subsequent attempt to disperse the group with riot control techniques failed, and the siege continued.
Thursday's Escalation
On Thursday, Israeli soldiers arrived at around 10am and ordered the families to evacuate their homes, citing a three-day military operation. Qusai Ridi, one of the besieged Palestinians, recounted, "The army arrived and asked us to evacuate because of a military operation. We refused, but they moved us all into one house." He was later allowed to return, only to find his security camera system damaged and some equipment stolen.
Soldiers took over eight homes in total, later relinquishing six, but they continue to occupy the home of Ridi's neighbor, Yousef Hassan. Settlers still roam the village, patrolling the area where 28-year-old Amir Moatasem Odeh was killed by a settler in March. No arrests have been made in that case.

Impact on the Community
The siege has disrupted daily life, with families crammed into single houses and essential services cut off. The psychological toll is immense, as residents live under constant threat of violence and displacement. International organizations have condemned the actions, calling for immediate protection of Palestinian civilians.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Sunday | Settlers and soldiers set up tent, block homes, cut utilities |
| Wednesday | Maj Gen Avi Bluth visits, promises to evacuate settlers |
| Thursday | Troops force families out, take over homes, damage property |
Key Takeaways
- Israeli troops forcibly displaced two Palestinian families in Qusra, West Bank.
- The siege began with settler blockades and utility cuts, escalating to military occupation of homes.
- A senior Israeli commander's promise to end the campaign was not fulfilled.
- International pressure is mounting, but no arrests have been made for settler violence.
FAQ
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