US Democrat Ro Khanna says armed Israeli settlers detained him during West Bank visit

US Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has claimed that he and his delegation were detained by armed Israeli settlers during a visit to the occupied West Bank, describing the incident as a reflection of the security situation faced by Palestinians in the region.

According to Khanna, the group was visiting Khirbet Zanuta, a Palestinian village that has witnessed repeated settler attacks, when settlers carrying US-made M4 carbines blocked their vehicle and prevented them from leaving.

An aide accompanying the congressman said the delegation was held for more than an hour before seeking assistance from the US Embassy in Jerusalem.

The Israeli military said troops and police responded after receiving reports that civilians had blocked vehicles in the area. It said security personnel dispersed those involved and enabled the delegation to continue its journey.

Khanna's reference to settlers carrying M4 carbines has also drawn attention to one of the world's most widely deployed military rifles.

The M4 is a compact version of the M16 assault rifle, developed for the US military to provide greater mobility without sacrificing accuracy or firepower. Chambered for the 5.56×45mm NATO round, it features a 14.5-inch barrel, weighs about 6.4 pounds when unloaded, and can fire between 700 and 950 rounds per minute.

The rifle has an effective range of around 500 metres and is used extensively by the US armed forces, special operations units, and several allied militaries worldwide.

Khanna, who has frequently spoken on US policy towards Israel and Palestine, said the incident underscored his concerns about settler violence in the West Bank.

Israel has rejected allegations made by some international critics and lawmakers regarding its conduct in the occupied territories.