UN report warns of escalating settler violence in the West Bank

The United Nations Human Rights Office has warned of a sharp escalation in Israeli settler attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, noting that these attacks have reached levels unprecedented in more than 20 years.

The Geneva-based office said that 96 Palestinians were injured by settlers in June, the highest monthly toll in more than two decades, in addition to the destruction of hundreds of homes and property.

According to UN data, 757 settler attacks have been recorded since the beginning of this year, resulting in casualties or material damage, a 13% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

A spokesperson for the office added, in a press conference on Tuesday, that these attacks contribute to Israel’s de facto annexation of areas of the West Bank, which is illegal under international law.

He also warned that the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians in the occupied territories may amount to a crime against humanity.