Washington Post photojournalist undergoes surgery after settler attack, demands arrests - interview
Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine says settlers beat her as IDF soldiers stood by. After surgery, she is demanding an investigation and arrests.
Israeli photojournalist Heidi Levine sustained injuries after being attacked by Jewish rioters during an olive harvest in the West Bank. Levine sustained injuries to her limbs, back, and a rib, and her cameras and personal belongings were stolen. Levine claimed that Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldiers witnessed the assault but did not intervene to protect her.
According to Levine, the two groups were evenly matched before IDF soldiers arrived. She alleged that the soldiers fired tear gas toward both journalists and Palestinians, causing them to disperse. Levine was then left alone and attacked by approximately 15 rioters, who stole her cameras, equipment, identification documents, and jewelry.
The incident occurred days after Levine returned from covering the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for an investigation into the incident, emphasizing that those responsible will be held accountable. Levine expressed disappointment with Netanyahu's response, criticizing his statement as casting doubt on her account.
She demanded arrests and a thorough investigation, rejecting a claim by the Yesha Council that a young Israeli had helped her during the assault.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
