Kathmandu— The Palestinian village of Taybeh, located east of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank and considered the last entirely Christian community in the territory, is experiencing a surge in violence from Israeli settlers, according to residents and activists. These incidents include property vandalism, disruption of essential services like water and electricity, and physical assaults on those who attempt to document the attacks; residents claim that despite repeated reports, the Israeli military has failed to intervene or hold perpetrators accountable, leading to increased fear and isolation for the community.

Recurring Settler Incursions

The Kaa’bneh family, a Bedouin community within Taybeh, experiences near-daily incursions from settlers who bring livestock onto their land. Naif Kaa’bneh described how settlers vandalize property by cutting fences, breaking water tanks, and disrupting electricity supplies. He also stated that those filming the incidents have been physically assaulted.

Military Response Criticized

Residents allege that Israeli military responses to settler attacks are inadequate and often non-existent. Naif Kaa’bneh claims soldiers routinely ignore reports of ongoing attacks, even when settlers are directly identified. “They have never once come and arrested a settler,” he said. “We tell them, ‘There’s the settler.’ The soldier just turns his head, pretends he hasn’t seen anything, and they leave.” This perceived inaction fuels a sense of impunity among the attackers.

Restrictions Impact Pilgrimage and Economy

Earlier this month, the Israeli military declared parts of the area around Taybeh a closed military zone, ostensibly to curb settler attacks. However, residents argue that these restrictions have instead limited their movement and harmed the village’s economy, which relies heavily on Christian pilgrims visiting the historically significant site – known in ancient times as Ephraim and mentioned in the Gospel of John.

Expanding Settlement Presence

Locals report the emergence of new settler outposts surrounding Taybeh, raising concerns that residents are being gradually encircled and displaced from land they have occupied for generations. This expansion contributes to a growing sense of insecurity and fear within the community.

The situation in Taybeh remains tense as residents continue to face ongoing violence and restrictions, with little indication of increased protection or accountability.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.