West Bank settler attacks rise 63% in first seven months of 2026

The Wall and Settlement Against the Separation Barrier Authority reported a sharp 63% increase in settler attacks in the West Bank during the first seven months of 2026. A total of 4,113 attacks were recorded from the beginning of the year through the end of July, compared to 2,524 attacks during the same period in 2025.

The highest levels of violence occurred in June and July, with 748 and 798 attacks recorded respectively. The Authority noted that monthly attack levels remained high throughout the year, with a significant surge approaching mid-year, indicating an expansion in both frequency and geographic scope.

The Authority attributed this escalation to a political, security, and legal environment established since the formation of the far-right government in late 2022. This environment has coincided with the expansion of settlement outposts, particularly pastoral ones, the arming of settlers, and increased military protection for them. The report also highlighted a growing functional overlap between the military and settlers in controlling land and restricting Palestinian access to resources, warning that these actions serve as an organized tool to create new geographic realities and drive Palestinian displacement.