Israeli Police Arrest 10 Following Attacks on Journalist and Diplomats in West Bank
Israeli police announced the arrest of 10 people on October 19 following violence in the occupied West Bank that included attacks on an American photojournalist and European diplomats.
Washington Post photographer Heidi Levine was assaulted on October 16 while covering the Palestinian olive harvest in Abu Falah. She suffered broken ribs and vertebrae and required surgery on an injured finger.
The following day, masked settlers attacked European diplomats and other visitors in Taybeh. The incidents prompted international demands for an investigation and accountability.
Police said the suspects were taken for questioning as investigators collected evidence and witness statements. The operation also involved suspected violations of a closed military zone order and illegal construction.
Authorities said they seized vehicles and items linked to suspected offenses. The investigation involved police, the Shin Bet security agency, Border Police and the Israeli military.
U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee condemned the assault on Levine. Israeli President Isaac Herzog and opposition politicians also denounced the violence.
Police did not initially identify the detainees or specify each person’s alleged role. The arrests came during the annual olive harvest, a period of heightened tensions between Palestinian farmers and Israeli settlers.
References
apnews/article/7812cdfd71fc7486322dd95e3547a176
the-journal/articles/associated-press/israeli-police-arrest-10-following-weekend-attacks-by-settlers-on-journalist-and-diplomats/
