European Diplomatic Delegation Attacked in Occupied West Bank

RAMALLAH, Palestine / ISTANBUL, October 17, 2026 — A European diplomatic delegation representing France, Belgium and Poland came under attack by Israeli settlers on Saturday while visiting Taybeh, a town in the central occupied West Bank, according to local officials. Several people were injured.

Taybeh Mayor Suleiman Khourieh told Anadolu that the incident occurred after a ceremony marking the signing of a town-twinning agreement between Taybeh and Saint-Pierre, a town in France.

The event was attended by the French and Belgian consuls, an unnamed Polish representative and Christian Ravain, mayor of Saint-Pierre.

The attackers targeted the delegation in the western part of Taybeh, as well as Palestinian residents who were harvesting olives. Khourieh said several local residents sustained injuries and a vehicle belonging to the Belgian delegation had its window smashed.

Israeli Army Radio, citing eyewitnesses and video footage, also reported that stones were thrown at one of the diplomatic vehicles, breaking a window.

Footage reportedly showed a delegation member lying on the ground beside the vehicle. The broadcaster identified the individual as Bernard Boudot, a French politician and mayor of Aulnoy-lez-Valenciennes in northern France.

Israel’s Channel 12, citing the Israeli military, reported that the incident was being reviewed. No arrests had been announced at the time of reporting.

Concerns Grow Over Attacks During Olive Harvest

Khourieh condemned the incident, describing it as a serious violation of diplomatic and humanitarian work. He also linked the attack to wider restrictions affecting Palestinian farmers.

Attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians and their land have reportedly increased during the olive harvest season, which began in early October. The annual harvest provides an essential source of income for thousands of Palestinian families.