Activists and journalist report assault by armed settlers in West Bank

OPA WIRE, Oct 29 (OPA) — Russian activist Adele Shoko stated that she, U.S. journalist Jasper Nathaniel, and Israeli-Russian activist Andrey X were attacked by armed settlers in the Palestinian village of Umm al-Khair, located in the Masafer Yatta area of the occupied West Bank. Shoko reported that the group was beaten and threatened, with settlers seizing personal items and equipment during the encounter.

According to Shoko, Nathaniel was pepper-sprayed and subsequently arrested by Israeli forces. She further alleged that Andrey X suffered a concussion and lost consciousness multiple times during the assault. Despite his condition, Shoko claimed that authorities denied him hospital care, transporting him to a police station instead of a medical facility. Video footage verified by social media posts shows armed men striking the activists and Israeli authorities leading Nathaniel away.

This incident follows an October 16 attack in Abu Falah, where masked settlers targeted Palestinian farmers during the olive harvest. Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine was beaten and robbed during that event, despite wearing press identification. Israeli soldiers arrived at the scene, firing live ammunition and tear gas, which resulted in a Palestinian man sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg.

Washington Post Executive Editor Matt Murray condemned the violence against Levine, labeling the incident an unwarranted attack on a journalist. The recurring nature of these confrontations has prompted calls from U.S. lawmakers for a formal investigation into settler violence. Authorities have yet to provide a detailed account regarding the specific charges against Nathaniel and Andrey X or the status of the medical care provided to those in custody.