Israeli officials reject criticism as lawmakers and commentators debate responsibility for confrontation
WASHINGTON/JERUSALEM: US Congressman Ro Khanna has rejected Israeli claims about his detention in the occupied West Bank after armed Israeli settlers and soldiers blocked his delegation during a visit to a Palestinian village, triggering political debate in both the United States and Israel.
Khanna said the incident occurred on Wednesday when armed settlers stopped his vehicle for about 20 minutes before Israeli soldiers joined them and continued blocking the road. According to the congressman, the confrontation lasted more than an hour and ended only after he contacted the US Embassy in Israel.
Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Leiter defended Israel’s position, arguing that Khanna had failed to properly coordinate his visit with Israeli authorities. He also questioned the timing of the congressman’s public release of footage from the incident, although he presented no evidence to support his suggestion.
Khanna denied the allegations, insisting that Israeli authorities had been informed of his travel plans and calling for the arrest of those responsible for blocking his delegation.
Conflicting accounts deepen political dispute
The Israeli military said it dispersed civilians who had obstructed the road. However, Khanna rejected that explanation, accusing both settlers and Israeli soldiers of participating in the detention.
He alleged that armed settlers carrying rifles surrounded the vehicle, intimidated passengers and prevented the delegation from proceeding.
The incident prompted sharp reactions from US politicians and commentators. Some Republican lawmakers accused Khanna of staging the visit for political purposes, while others, including conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, criticised US officials for failing to defend an American lawmaker.
Renewed focus on settler violence
The confrontation has renewed attention on violence involving Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank. Human rights organisations have repeatedly documented attacks on Palestinian communities and foreign nationals in the territory.
Khanna called for accountability, saying any settlers or soldiers found responsible for mistreating US citizens should face legal consequences.
The incident has also revived debate in Washington over US support for Israel and the safety of American citizens travelling in the occupied Palestinian territories amid continuing regional tensions.
