Washington Post Photographer Injured in Settler Attack in West Bank

A photographer for The Washington Post was injured during an attack by approximately 80 Israeli settlers in the Palestinian village of Abu Falah, in the West Bank, during the olive harvest season. The settlers reportedly threw stones at Palestinian farmers and olive pickers and set olive trees on fire. The photographer, identified as Levine, was reportedly knocked to the ground and kicked repeatedly, despite wearing protective gear and clearly identifying herself as a journalist. Her colleagues intervened to help her. Speaking from the hospital, Levine stated that her helmet and protective vest likely prevented more severe injuries. Israeli forces arrived at the scene during the assault and fired tear gas at Palestinians. The Israeli military stated its soldiers fired warning shots and shot at an individual they believed posed a threat. The editor-in-chief of The Washington Post condemned the attack on Levine, demanding a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible, emphasizing she was performing her journalistic duties and clearly marked as press. The incident occurs amid an increase in attacks on Palestinian farmers in the West Bank during the olive harvest, threatening their safety and access to their land and crops.