Hamas has strongly denounced Israel’s recent surge in settler violence in the occupied West Bank as an “organized terrorist policy” intended to displace Palestinians and consolidate Israeli control over the area. Their condemnation follows a significant escalation in attacks during olive harvest season 2025 – traditionally an important time economically and culturally for Palestinian farmers.

Palestinian Farmers Report Increase in Settler Violence
Since October 1st 2025, Palestinian farmers have reported over 150 incidents of settler violence across the West Bank. These attacks include physical assaults, property destruction and the destruction of olive groves that are essential to Palestinian economy. Settlers were seen attacking harvesters and activists at Turmus Ayya village near Nablus resulting in at least one woman needing hospitalization due to severe injury from these attacks; human rights organizations and United Nations condemned these actions noting an 13% increase over previous year compared with last year AP News +1.0.
Hamas Reacts
Hamas has issued a statement condemning Israeli attacks as part of an overall strategy to expand settlements, intimidate local residents, and force them off their land. A senior Hamas official, Abdul Rahman Shadid characterized these actions as part of efforts by the fascist occupation government to expand settlements, intimidate residents, and forcibly displace residents off their land through displacement and annexation plans.

International Reactions
The international community has expressed alarm over the increase in settler violence. The UN has demanded immediate measures to protect Palestinian civilians and hold perpetrators accountable, while human rights organizations have strongly criticised Israeli authorities for failing to prevent these attacks and prosecuting those responsible. Likewise, European Union nations have called on Israel to take greater steps against settler violence to safeguard Palestinian communities and maintain safety.

Broader Implications
This spike in settler violence coincides with a range of geopolitical tensions, including Gaza’s ongoing conflict and discussions of future governance of the region. Recently, US has stressed that Hamas should not participate in running Gaza; this statement has drawn harsh criticism from Palestinian leaders; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has continued military operations despite international calls for ceasefire; The Guardian gives more details here +1
Conclusion
Recent Israeli settler violence in the West Bank has further escalated tensions. Hamas’s condemnation highlights ongoing difficulties for Palestinian communities living under occupation and underscores the necessity of international intervention to address root causes of conflict. As this situation develops, its response by international actors will determine prospects for peace and stability in this volatile region.