U.S. condemns settlers' week-long siege of Palestinian homes in Qusra

Washington condemned the siege of Palestinian homes in Qusra, West Bank, that has lasted almost a week. In a statement released Tuesday, the U.S. State Department said the “unlawful blockade and intimidation of civilians by Israeli settlers violates international law and undermines the prospects for a two‑state solution.” The statement called on Israeli authorities to lift the siege immediately and to hold those responsible accountable.

Qusra sits on the outskirts of Jerusalem and has long been a flashpoint for settler violence. Over the past decade the town has seen a steady increase in settlement activity, with the Israeli government approving new housing projects that push into Palestinian land. The current siege follows a pattern of settler groups using bulldozers, roadblocks and armed confrontations to pressure Palestinian residents into abandoning their homes. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that such actions amount to collective punishment.

The blockade began on Monday when a group of about 30 settlers surrounded 12 homes in Qusra’s central district. They erected fences, cut off electricity and water, and threatened residents with further violence unless they vacated the property. Israeli police were called in after residents reported the threat, but the settlers maintained control of the area for nearly 48 hours. No injuries were reported, but the siege displaced more than 200 residents, who were forced to seek shelter in nearby towns. The Israeli military has yet to issue a statement on the incident, while the Palestinian Authority has called for an international investigation.

The U.S. condemnation is part of a broader push to curb settlement expansion. Washington has signalled that it may consider targeted sanctions against individuals and companies involved in the construction of illegal outposts. The State Department also urged the United Nations Security Council to review the situation and to support a renewed push for a negotiated settlement. The next week will see the U.S. working with allies to pressure Israel to lift the siege and to ensure that Palestinian communities can live without fear of settler intimidation.