Israeli settlers have blocked roads and cut off water and electricity to three Palestinian families inside their homes in the village of Qusra, West Bank, since Sunday, August 9, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The siege includes road blockades, tents, and temporary structures erected by settlers around the Palestinian homes [2, 4]. Approximately 15 Palestinians, including two children, remain trapped inside the homes [2].
The Israeli military has deployed multiple troop reinforcements to Qusra since early this week. Forces used tear gas and stun grenades in attempts to dislodge settlers on August 12 but failed to fully remove them [1, 2, 3]. On August 13, the military imposed a curfew on the village, sealed off entrances, seized 16 Palestinian homes for military use, and ordered shops to close amid mounting tensions [5, 6]. Infantry troops, military vehicles, and bulldozers have been involved in the operation [5, 6].
Palestinian families under siege are running low on food, water, and medicine, relying on leftover well water and temporary solar power in some cases [2, 3, 7]. Qusay Abu Ridi, one of the besieged Palestinians, told reporters, "I only have supplies for two to three days left. And if no one is able to provide us with food, I am not sure what else I can do" [3]. He and family members have appealed internationally for help, including complaints to the US embassy [1, 2, 3, 7]. His family is determined to stay: "We will not leave our home, no matter what happens. Despite the water and electricity being cut off, we will remain steadfast," Abu Ridi said [3].
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the settlers’ actions as "an act of terror meant to intimidate and harass this family," adding, "No excuse for such thuggish behaviour" [1, 7]. Local Palestinian officials accuse Israeli security forces of allowing settler violence and land seizures with impunity and allege settlers seek to seize Palestinian land in Qusra [1, 2, 3, 7, 6]. Some soldiers initially prayed alongside settlers at the siege site before disciplinary action was promised [1, 2, 3].
Israeli forces have repeatedly struggled to remove settlers fully, leaving some groups in place despite evacuation attempts [1, 2, 3, 7]. The military offensive and occupation of homes are expected to continue at least until the morning of Sunday, August 16, according to local officials [6].
