Settlers in the Israeli-Occupied West Bank Drive a Palestinian Family Off Its Land

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by Azam Ahmed

February 23, 2026

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Settlers in the Israeli-occupied West Bank have driven a Palestinian family off their land after years of violent attacks. Rezeq Abu Naim and his family endured relentless harassment for two years, including vandalism, beatings, and threats. The final straw came on Saturday when armed settlers violently attacked the family, beating Mr. Abu Naim, his wife, daughter, and granddaughter. His son and 14-year-old nephew were shot and wounded during the ensuing gunfire, with Israeli soldiers arriving shortly after. This incident is part of a broader pattern of increasing violence and displacement against Palestinians in the West Bank since the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023. Settlers have escalated their efforts to forcibly remove Palestinians from their land, leading to a surge in violent incidents. Mr. Abu Naim’s case highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinian communities under Israeli occupation, as settlers seek to assert control over contested territories. The New York Times reported on Mr. Abu Naim’s long fight against settler aggression, chronicling his efforts to resist displacement despite growing pressure. His family had been forced to seek shelter in caves and other makeshift accommodations due to the constant threats. The recent escalation of violence reflects a worrying trend across the West Bank, where Palestinian lives are increasingly at risk from both settlers and military forces. This situation underscores the deepening tensions in the region and raises concerns about the future of peace efforts between Israelis and Palestinians. The displacement of families like the Abu Naim clan not only destroys livelihoods but also fuels broader conflicts, making the search for stability more challenging than ever. Readers interested in global news will recognize the importance of addressing such human rights issues to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026