Israeli Soldiers Seen With Settlers During West Bank Siege Even as Government Calls Actions 'Deplorable'

Israeli settlers besieged three Palestinian households in Qusra, south of Nablus, cutting off water and electricity from August 9. Israeli soldiers were seen mingling and praying with settlers during the siege. Government spokesperson David Mercer called the actions "deplorable" and "unacceptable," promising investigation and arrests. A UN Security Council briefing four days later said West Bank settler violence reached a new high.