Kathmandu— Israeli forces have prevented activists from reaching Palestinian families whose homes near Nablus, in the occupied West Bank town of Qusra, have been surrounded by settlers for nearly a week. Approximately 15 Palestinians, including two children, are trapped within three homes in the Ras al-Ain area, cut off from basic supplies like water and electricity after settlers blocked roads and erected barriers earlier this week. The Israeli military declared the area a closed military zone to prevent access, forcing both Israeli and foreign activists to turn back. Residents refused orders to temporarily leave their homes, fearing dispossession if they did so.

Escalating Restrictions on Access

Activists from the Israeli group Peace Now and Italian volunteers attempted to deliver food and water to the besieged families on Friday but were stopped by Israeli forces who brought in reinforcements. Qusra Mayor Abdel Azim Wadi reported that even the Italian activists who had previously reached the homes were forced to leave by the military. The United Nations has stated that those trapped inside are living “in a state of terror, unable to attend to their basic needs and without access to water or electricity.”

Settler Activity and Infrastructure

Settlers began surrounding the homes earlier this week, blocking roads with stones and erecting a tent in an attempt to establish an outpost nearby. While Israeli forces removed the tent on Friday, the ongoing presence of settlers has created a volatile situation for residents. Political scientist Ibrahim Rabaia noted that settlement expansion is at an advanced stage, with significant infrastructure and funding being allocated to create permanent settlements capable of accommodating larger populations.

Shifting Enforcement Responsibilities

The developments come as Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced preparations to transfer responsibility for enforcing civilian law involving settlers in the occupied West Bank from the military to the Israeli police. Rabaia questioned the practicality and intent of this move, pointing out that the police are under the control of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who is known to support and arm settlers in the West Bank. He argued that such a transfer would likely not result in increased protection for Palestinians from settler attacks.

Qusra has become a focal point for settler violence in the northern occupied West Bank, with the UN reporting more attacks there than in any other community within the territory. The situation remains tense as families continue to be besieged and access to essential supplies is restricted.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.