In the village of Qusra, located in the occupied West Bank, a Palestinian American’s property has been surrounded by Israeli settlers for over a week. On Monday, the homeowner traveled to join family members defending the home.
Settlers have encircled several Palestinian residences, restricting movement. The United States has criticized this action, and the Israeli military has stationed troops to maintain order.
Violence in the West Bank has surged in recent months. Settlers, feeling supported by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, have intensified attacks on Palestinian communities. These actions include setting homes, mosques, and fields on fire. Reports from Palestinian health officials state that Israeli forces and settlers have killed 87 Palestinians this year. Conversely, Palestinians have killed three Israelis, including two in the village of Tell last month.
Loui Ridi, from Ohio, owns one of the besieged homes. Upon arriving in Israel, he encountered settlers near Qusra. Video evidence from his brother shows settlers engaging with soldiers and driving ATVs around the area. Ridi had been observing these events remotely via home security footage.
I’ve been watching this live for many days and now this is the second week. I can’t sleep,he expressed at Israel’s main airport.I can’t let the settlers steal my house while I was watching.
Ridi reached Qusra on Monday evening and met his family before heading to his house. His brother, Qusai Abu Rida, and nephew had protected the property during this period.
Ridi awaited military guidance to his home as he believed circumstances had not improved since the start of the siege. Although the area is now a closed military zone, his brother’s video still depicted soldiers interacting with settlers.
I should be able to go to my house freely, anytime I want,Ridi stated.It is a frustration and a nightmare for the entire family.