Israeli settlers attack European diplomats in the occupied West Bank

On October 17, 2026, masked Israeli settlers attacked a convoy of European diplomats and a visiting French mayor near Taybeh in the occupied West Bank. Bernard Baudoux, the mayor of Aulnoye-Aymeries, was severely assaulted by masked assailants who kicked him and hit him with iron bars as he joined Palestinian olive farmers. The attack also involved the Belgian consul general, French and Polish diplomats, and the archbishop of Cambrai, resulting in injuries to three people and damage to a car.

The violence occurred during the sensitive olive harvest period when settlers frequently clash with Palestinians over land rights. Since the beginning of the month, at least four people have been killed and more than 100 injured due to similar incidents. Activists claim that Israeli authorities do little to prevent these attacks, which range from slingshots to firearms.

Belgium's foreign minister, Maxime Prevot, condemned the assault and urged Israel to bring those responsible to justice. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot demanded action against "criminal violence," highlighting growing international concern over settler aggression ahead of Israeli elections later that month.