Israeli settlers sexually assaulted a Palestinian man during an attack in March, according to the victim and eyewitnesses. The assault involved tying his genitalia with zip ties and parading him naked in front of his family.
This incident is part of a series of attacks by masked Jewish settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank, including burning cars and homes, beatings, and livestock theft. These incidents have become nearly daily occurrences, according to Palestinians living in the Israeli-occupied territory and rights groups tracking the violence.
Suhaib Abu Kbash, 29, reported that around 80 armed settlers raided his Bedouin community of Humsah on March 13. He was beaten, stripped, bound, and dragged naked past his children. Three eyewitnesses confirmed his account to Reuters.
The Israeli military and police stated the incident is under investigation. Seven suspects have been arrested on suspicion of involvement, with forces and forensic investigators conducting searches and collecting evidence.
The Yesha Council, representing Jewish settlements, did not comment on the incident. The group’s executive director noted a pattern of escalating violence against Palestinians in the Jordan Valley area.
Since Israel and the US launched strikes on Iran in late February, settler violence has increased, with Israeli settlers killing at least five Palestinians. Despite numerous documented cases of settler violence since October 2023, indictments remain rare, according to Yesh Din, an Israeli rights group.
Abu Kbash also reported that during the attack, settlers stole 400 sheep from his community, crucial for their livelihood. He attempted to file a complaint with Israeli police but was unsuccessful. Israeli police confirmed they are investigating the assault but did not mention the theft.
Palestinians seek an independent state in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. Most countries consider Israel’s settlement activity in these territories illegal under international law on military occupations, while Israel disputes this interpretation.