Israeli settlers attack European diplomats, beat French mayor
The 78-year-old mayor says masked settlers attacked him as he joined Palestinian olive farmers in the West Bank alongside French and Belgian representatives.
Israeli settlers attacked a convoy of European diplomats in the West Bank and beat French mayor Bernard Baudoux, witnesses reported. The 78-year-old mayor was reportedly kicked and hit with iron bars while joining Palestinian olive farmers. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for Israel to urgently halt the violence and arrest those responsible.
The attack occurred just a day after an American photographer was similarly beaten. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied any political motives behind the violence, blaming a "smear campaign" against settlers. Netanyahu's main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, strongly criticized the government, calling the attacks "Jewish terrorism."
The mayor stated he believed the Israeli government tolerated such behavior. The violence has sparked international condemnation, including economic sanctions from Britain. Netanyahu's government has intensified settlement approvals, which are illegal under international law.
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