UN warns West Bank settler violence worsening

On July 29, 2026, the UN Human Rights Office warned that settler violence and territorial annexation in the occupied West Bank have worsened two years after the International — International Criminal Court declared Israel's occupation unlawful. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani reported that since July 23, eight Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers have been killed, with settlers and Israeli security forces attacking communities, destroying property, and burning mosques. The UN noted that settlement construction and attacks have reached record levels, with Israel's security cabinet approving 1.3 billion shekels for 34 new settlements. The situation has deteriorated since the Gaza war began in October 2023, with over 1,097 Palestinians and 48 Israelis killed in related violence. The UN urged international action to end the occupation.