US Representative Ro Khanna has accused Israeli soldiers of siding with armed Israeli settlers after he and members of his delegation were detained during a visit to the occupied West Bank.
Khanna, a Democratic congressman from California, said the incident occurred near the Palestinian community of Khirbet Zanuta, where settlers allegedly blocked their convoy and held the group for more than an hour before Israeli security personnel intervened.
In a statement posted on social media, Khanna claimed Israeli troops supported the settlers instead of ensuring the group's safety, describing the incident as a "huge mistake." He said he would provide further details about the encounter.
Speaking to reporters, Khanna alleged that the settlers, armed with assault rifles, stopped their vehicles and later called in Israeli soldiers, who he said did not immediately end the detention. An aide travelling with the congressman said the group sought assistance from the US Embassy before they were eventually released.
The Israeli military confirmed receiving reports of settlers blocking vehicles in the area and said troops and police officers responded to the scene.
The incident has renewed attention on rising violence involving Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, an issue that has drawn growing international concern. Several Western countries have recently imposed sanctions on individuals and groups linked to settler violence.
Khanna, who has been among US lawmakers calling for an end to American military aid to Israel, said the experience strengthened his concerns about US support for Israel's military operations. Congress is currently considering legislation that could further deepen US-Israel defence cooperation.
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