Israeli settlers surround Palestinian homes in Qusra, cut off water and electricity

A Palestinian-American family’s dream of a home in the West Bank has turned into a desperate struggle for survival. Loui Ridi, who lives in the United States, built a house in his native town of Qusra so his daughters could connect with their heritage. Today, that home is one of three properties surrounded by Israeli settlers who have cut off all water and electricity. Inside, family members are trapped with dwindling food supplies as the blockade enters its fifth day.

The crisis began when settlers blocked the main roads and pitched tents on the hilltop. Although the Israeli military eventually arrived to dismantle these outposts, the initial response saw soldiers joining the settlers in prayer. This sparked outrage and led to violent confrontations where hundreds of settlers used rocks and boulders to push back security forces. The situation remains tense as some settlers continue to hide in the area to avoid the army.

Rising Displacement and Empty Homes

The military recently declared Qusra a closed zone and initially ordered a dozen Palestinian households to leave. Soldiers planned to use these private residences as temporary barracks to manage the unrest. This move caused deep fear among local residents, who worried that leaving would allow settlers to seize their properties permanently. They pointed to a recent case in the nearby village of Jalud, where a family was forced out after a two-week siege, only for settlers to move in and fly their own flags from the roof.

Following complaints to the US embassy and widespread media attention, the military reversed the eviction order, allowing families to stay for now. However, the broader picture remains grim. United Nations data reveals that approximately 3,800 Palestinians, including many children, have been displaced in 2026 due to settler violence and home demolitions. While international officials have condemned these acts as forms of intimidation, the Israeli government has recently approved nearly $800 million in funding to further expand settlements in the region.