IDF Arrests Palestinian Police Officers for Attacking, Kidnapping Israeli Reservist

Israeli security forces arrested three Palestinian Authority police officers this week in connection with the assault and abduction of an Israeli reservist near Beitunia in the West Bank. The incident occurred overnight Saturday to Sunday when the officers allegedly set up an illegal roadblock in Area C, a zone where they are not authorized to operate, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

The reservist, Shlomo Rosenthal, a member of a local security team traveling from Jerusalem to his home, reported that his vehicle was blocked by the Palestinian officers. He stated that they opened his door and attempted to seize his weapon. When he resisted, more officers arrived. Rosenthal claims he was pepper-sprayed, kicked in the face, disarmed, and then handcuffed before being placed in a police vehicle and driven to Ramallah.

Rosenthal was eventually handed over to Israeli forces through coordination with the Civil Administration. His testimony was taken at a police station in Modiin Illit, and his weapon was returned. The Israeli security establishment described the incident as a "serious overstepping of authority" by the Palestinian forces, noting that the actions endangered the Israeli national and involved excessive violence.

The IDF emphasized that security coordination with the Palestinian Authority continues under political directives, but stressed that any deviation from procedures would not be tolerated. Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council and the Yesha Council, praised the arrests, calling them a "clear message" about Israel's security responsibility in Area C. He also called for ensuring Israeli safety in Areas B and for the opening of a secure route between the Dolev-Talmonim area and Route 443.