IDF Blocks MK Ofer Cassif's Attempt to Enter Kusra Village in West Bank

On Friday, Israeli Member of Knesset Ofer Cassif attempted to enter the Palestinian village of Kusra in the West Bank to provoke tensions involving the IDF and settlers. Security forces were prepared for this move, having anticipated Cassif's intentions. Following instructions from Defense Minister Israel Katz, the IDF prevented Cassif and his accompanying team from reaching the village and expelled them from the area, effectively stopping the planned provocation.

In parallel, Defense Minister Katz directed the military to coordinate with the Israeli police to develop a detailed plan for transferring all civilian enforcement authority in the West Bank settlements and among the Israeli population from the IDF to the police. This plan includes establishing a dedicated police unit with the necessary powers and budget to handle civilian matters. Katz emphasized that it is neither the role nor within the capacity of the IDF to manage civilian enforcement in the West Bank.

This incident and the ministerial directive reflect ongoing efforts to adjust security and civil governance responsibilities in the West Bank amid tensions between Israeli settlers, Palestinian residents, and political actors.