US Congressman Detained by Armed Settlers in West Bank During Tour

Democratic US Representative Ro Khanna was detained for over an hour this week by armed Israeli settlers during a visit to the West Bank, specifically near Khirbet Zanuta in southern Mount Hebron. Khanna, a California congressman and potential 2028 presidential candidate, was touring with a group of Palestinians to gain an "unfiltered perspective" when settlers carrying US-made M4 rifles surrounded their vehicle, blocked the road, and delayed their movement. The incident ended only after intervention by Israeli military and police forces, following Khanna's team contacting the US Embassy in Jerusalem for assistance.

Khanna recounted that the settlers called the Israeli army, which sided with the settlers rather than the American delegation. His aide, Cameron Kasky, confirmed the group was held for more than an hour. The Israeli military stated that forces arrived after reports of civilians blocking vehicles, dispersed the Israeli citizens, and allowed the convoy to proceed. No official responses were received from the Israeli police or the US Embassy.

During the visit, Khanna sharply criticized Israeli policies, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza and apartheid in the West Bank, remarks Israel strongly rejects. He said the incident reinforced his presidential ambitions. This event occurs amid rising tensions within the US Democratic Party over support for Israel ahead of the midterm elections. Khanna's visit coincided with former US Ambassador Ron Dermer's warnings that Israeli policies toward Palestinians are eroding US-Israel support.

A recent Reuters poll showed Democratic voter support for Israel dropped from 59% in 2018 to 22% in May 2024. Concurrently, calls in Congress to reduce Israel's $3.8 billion annual military aid, which funds light weapons and missile interceptors, are increasing.