Masked settlers target diplomats amid escalating tensions in Palestinian territories

On October 18, 2026, masked individuals attacked a group of diplomats and officials in Palestinian territories, according to French Mayor Maxime Prevot. The incident involved Israeli settlers targeting Palestinian civilians, French and Polish diplomats, Belgium's consul general, and the French mayor himself.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar labeled the perpetrators as Israeli rioters, while Palestinian Vice-President Hussein al-Sheikh characterized the attack as a small example of ongoing daily terrorism against Palestinians. The violence followed an incident where settlers beat an American photojournalist the previous day.

Belgian officials confirmed masked settlers attacked Palestinians, Catholic representatives, and Western diplomats at the site, with Prevot emphasizing that Israeli authorities must protect Palestinians and ensure diplomatic safety. He also stated that impunity for violent settlers must end, as per his X statement.