Israeli Settlers Attack European Diplomatic Convoy and Assault French Mayor in West Bank

PothikTV News Desk: 18 October 2026, 9:18 am

A diplomatic delegation from Europe came under attack by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank while visiting Palestinian farmers during the olive harvesting season, according to eyewitnesses and official statements.

The incident occurred on Saturday as diplomats from France, Belgium, and Poland gathered to observe conditions on the ground. Among the delegation was 78-year-old Bernard Baudoux, the mayor of the French town of Aulnoye-Aymeries, who was physically assaulted during the confrontation.

Baudoux reported that masked settlers directed insulting comments at France before physically attacking him. He stated that he was kicked and struck with an iron rod, after which he was seen collapsing beside a vehicle.

Speaking about the attack, Baudoux expressed concern that such actions by settlers are being tolerated by the Israeli government. He highlighted the ongoing difficulties faced by local residents, noting that while he can return home, the Palestinians remaining in the area face continued suffering.

The physical assault follows another violent incident in the region just a day prior, in which Israeli settlers beat Heidi Levine, a photographer for The Washington Post, causing her to suffer severe spinal injuries.

Diplomatic officials swiftly condemned the violence. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot issued a statement urging Israel to urgently put an end to the violence. Both he and the Belgian foreign minister called for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators responsible for the attack.

International reaction also came from the United States, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling the images emerging from the region highly concerning. Rubio added that President Donald Trump does not wish to see further conflict in the West Bank.

Tensions and settler aggression have reportedly intensified in the lead-up to the upcoming Israeli elections scheduled for October 27, as settlers represent a key voter base for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.