West Bank Settler Violence: US Journalist Heidi Levine Injured, Washington Demands Investigation Ramallah, October 18, 2026 Violence in the occupied West Bank has drawn international condemnation after American photojournalist Heidi Levine of The Washington Post was seriously injured in an alleged attack by Israeli settlers near Abu Falah on October 16. Levine was covering Palestinian olive harvesting when the incident occurred. Reports say she suffered serious hand injuries, broken ribs and spinal injuries. She underwent surgery on her hand. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Israel to take stronger action to prevent settler violence. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee also condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be arrested and prosecuted. The incident comes amid reports of attacks on Palestinian olive farmers and damage to vehicles and olive trees across several West Bank villages during the annual harvest season. On October 17, European diplomats visiting the Christian village of Taybeh were also reportedly attacked by settlers. Israeli police said they had opened an investigation. The incidents have intensified international concern about the safety of Palestinian civilians, journalists and foreign visitors in the occupied West Bank. What happens next? International attention is now focused on the investigations, accountability for those responsible and measures to protect Palestinian communities during the olive harvest.