IDF Deploys Additional Infantry Battalion to West Bank Amid Settler Clashes in Kusra

The IDF Chief of Staff, Major General Eyal Zamir, held a situation assessment on Wednesday regarding ongoing clashes in the Kusra area of the West Bank. The meeting included Central Command Chief Major General Avi Blot, Operations Division Head Major General Itzik Cohen, and Operations Brigade Head Brigadier General Barak Hiram. Zamir ordered reinforcement of operational control in the area by deploying an additional regular infantry battalion currently undergoing refresher training. The battalion will be rapidly mobilized to strengthen security and restore order.

The clashes erupted after dozens of settlers imposed a siege on two Palestinian homes in Kusra, located in Area B, blocking roads, dismantling fences, and cutting off electricity and water supplies. The entire area has been declared a closed military zone. Earlier Wednesday, the IDF began evacuating the siege, facing resistance from settlers who obstructed the army’s efforts. Central Command Chief Blot personally visited the site, spoke with Palestinian residents, and urged settlers to cease interference.

The human rights organization Yesh Din reported that seven Palestinians, including two girls aged ten and four, have been trapped inside their homes for three days due to the siege. According to Yesh Din, settlers from the recently established outpost "Tel Talpiot," founded in January in Area B, set up a new outpost structure near the Palestinian homes on Sunday and immediately began the siege. They blocked access with stone piles, sabotaged electrical cables and solar panels, and damaged water pipes, causing severe shortages of water and food.

The IDF stated that the operation is a multi-agency effort involving the Israel Police and Shin Bet to restore order, maintain security, and hold perpetrators accountable. Alongside ongoing counterterrorism efforts and enhanced settlement defense, the Chief of Staff instructed all forces in Judea and Samaria to strictly adhere to rules of engagement during such incidents.