Congressman Ro Khanna Reports Detention by Israeli Military and Settlers in West Bank

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna stated on Saturday that he was detained by Israeli settlers and military personnel in the occupied West Bank, and was released only after intervention from the American Embassy in Jerusalem. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) denied any involvement in detaining visitors during the incident. Khanna, a California Democrat, described the confrontation that took place on Wednesday during a three-day tour of the West Bank, specifically in the town of Khirbet Zanuta. According to Khanna's office, his group was stopped by armed individuals and prevented from leaving the area. A photographer from The New York Times reportedly witnessed the incident. Khanna expressed disappointment at the soldiers' friendly interaction with the settlers and their obstruction of his group's exit. He indicated that it was only after contacting the U.S. Embassy and Israeli police that they were allowed to leave. In a fundraising email following the incident, Khanna remarked on the implications for Palestinians who lack similar resources. The IDF later issued a statement confirming they received reports of Israeli citizens blocking foreign nationals and media in Khirbet Zanuta, and claimed that their troops were dispatched to disperse the civilians and reopen the road. Additionally, the Israeli military reported detaining four individuals who attacked foreign journalists in another West Bank community. The West Bank has experienced increased settlement construction and violence against Palestinians in recent years, with the international community widely viewing the settlements as illegal. Israel maintains that the West Bank is disputed territory, with its final status subject to negotiations.