US Congressman Detained by Armed Israeli Settlers During West Bank Visit

Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna from California reported to Reuters that he was detained this week by armed Israeli settlers wielding US-made M4 rifles while touring the West Bank. Khanna, a prominent progressive figure considering a 2028 presidential run, said the visit aimed to provide him with an unfiltered view of the situation on the ground. He described being surrounded by settlers in a village where settlers had previously destroyed property, including a school. The settlers blocked their vehicle and called the Israeli military, which Khanna said sided with the settlers rather than his group.

Khanna emphasized that his visit was coordinated with Palestinian contacts to gain an unbiased perspective and called the situation a "moral test." He criticized senior Democrats for being disconnected from the moral significance the Palestinian issue holds for the party's base. His aide, Cameron Kasky, who was present, said they were held for over an hour and sought help from the US Embassy in Jerusalem before police intervened and secured their release.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that military and police forces responded after receiving reports of civilians blocking vehicles near Khirbet Zanuta. Upon arrival, the forces dispersed the Israeli civilians and allowed the vehicles to proceed. This incident highlights the increasing polarization within the US Democratic Party regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the tensions on the ground in the West Bank.