UN Warns of Escalating Violence and Settlement Expansion in the West Bank

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GENEVA, 29 July 2026 – The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the worsening violence in the occupied West Bank, warning that attacks by Israeli settlers, expanding settlements, and increasing restrictions on Palestinians continue to intensify despite the International Court of Justice's 2024 ruling declaring Israel's occupation unlawful. Speaking on Wednesday, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said violence by settlers and the continued annexation of Palestinian land had reached alarming levels two years after the court ruled that Israel's presence in the occupied Palestinian Territory must end as rapidly as possible. According to the UN, eight Palestinians, including a child, and two Israeli soldiers have been killed in the occupied West Bank since last Thursday. Israeli settlers, often alongside security forces, have reportedly attacked Palestinian communities, assaulted residents, destroyed and confiscated property, and set fire to mosques. The UN also noted that tighter movement restrictions are preventing Palestinians from accessing essential services. The UN voiced alarm over the Israeli Government's plans to expand settlements and outposts, as well as public statements by Israeli leaders calling for revenge and collective punishment against Palestinian communities, including threats to turn the West Bank into "another Gaza." The UN Human Rights Office urged third States to take urgent and coordinated action to stop the continuing violence, prevent further displacement of Palestinians, and work toward ending the Israeli occupation in line with international law. Source: UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR).