US Congressman Claims Armed Settlers Detained Him in South Hebron Amid Tensions

Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna alleged that he was detained by armed Israeli settlers during a visit to the southern Hebron area in the West Bank. According to Khanna's office, while touring near the Palestinian village of Khirbet Zanuta, he and his delegation were surrounded by settlers carrying US-made M4 rifles. The settlers reportedly blocked their path, and when Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers arrived, Khanna claimed they sided with the settlers and did not assist the delegation. Only after Israeli police intervened and dispersed the settlers and their vehicles blocking the road was the group able to continue.

Khanna criticized the IDF and threatened legal action in Israel, stating, "If this is how an American congressman is treated, imagine what Palestinian families endure just trying to live their lives." In an interview with Reuters, he said he might be the first American politician detained by the IDF and Israeli settlers. The incident has strengthened his resolve to consider a 2028 US presidential run, emphasizing the need for a new moral direction in the Democratic Party that respects human rights globally.

The IDF responded to Reuters that forces and police were dispatched after reports of Israeli civilians blocking vehicles near Khirbet Zanuta. Upon arrival, the Israeli civilians were dispersed, and the road was reopened to allow passage. Khanna is known as a prominent critic of Israeli policies within the Democratic Party and is mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in 2028.