A Palestinian man in the occupied West Bank has accused Israeli settlers of sexually assaulting him during a violent overnight raid on his village.
Qusai Abu al-Kebash said dozens of masked settlers stormed into his community, bound his hands and legs, stripped him, and assaulted him before parading him through the village while beating him.
“They tied me up, stripped me, and dragged me around. It was extremely painful. I thought they were going to kill me,” he said in an interview.
Family members and witnesses, including foreign activists, corroborated his account, saying they saw the assault and were also threatened during the attack.
The incident reflects a broader pattern of rising violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, often aimed at forcing communities from their homes. Analysts and rights groups warn the reported assault signals a disturbing escalation in the nature of such attacks.
Israeli authorities say an investigation is underway into the alleged assault and the reported theft of livestock belonging to the victim. A joint statement by the police and military condemned acts of violence and said those responsible would be held accountable.
However, many Palestinians remain sceptical, citing a long history of limited accountability in cases involving settler violence.
The attack has left Abu al-Kebash traumatised, with visible injuries and ongoing fear for his safety. He said his wife, relatives, and children were also beaten and threatened during the incident.
Violence in the West Bank has intensified in recent years, particularly amid broader regional tensions involving Israel and its neighbours.
Human rights groups have repeatedly warned of a growing climate of impunity, with increasing reports of attacks on civilians, homes, and property.
Despite the risks, Abu al-Kebash said he chose to speak out to draw global attention to the situation.
“I want the world to see what is happening to us,” he said. “We did nothing, yet they came and did this.”
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