US Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, said he was detained by Israeli settlers and the Israeli military in the occupied West Bank. He was released only after calls to the American Embassy in Jerusalem.
Details of the Incident
According to Khanna’s office, the confrontation occurred on Wednesday during a three-day tour of the West Bank. The congressman was visiting a Palestinian village that had been abandoned after settler attacks. Masked men with guns stopped his group and refused to let them leave.
The Israeli Defense Forces denied detaining any visitors in the incident. However, they did confirm that they received a report of Israeli citizens blocking foreign nationals and media in the area.
Khanna expressed disappointment at the friendly interaction between the Israeli soldiers and the settlers who had detained him. He also criticized the soldiers for blocking the exit for his party.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the escalating tensions between Israel and the Democratic Party. Many Democratic politicians have been critical of Israel’s actions in the West Bank.
A recent survey found that about 58% of Democrats believe the US is too supportive of Israel. This shift in opinion has led to increased scrutiny of Israel’s actions and a reevaluation of the US-Israel relationship.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
