Settler-only IDF units functioning as ‘vigilante militias’ in West Bank

Israeli reserve units, composed primarily of settlers, have been accused of acting as vigilante groups in the West Bank, intensifying violence against Palestinians. These regional defense units, established in October 2023, emerged as the Israeli military redirected its focus towards Gaza, leaving a power vacuum in the West Bank. Reports from Israeli soldiers, activists, and the United Nations highlight the troubling role these units play in the ongoing displacement of Palestinian communities. This situation underscores a broader historical pattern of militarization and settler violence in the West Bank, reflecting long-standing tensions between Israeli settlers and Palestinian residents. The emergence of these settler-only units as quasi-military forces raises significant concerns about the erosion of state authority and the normalization of violence against civilians. This development is emblematic of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where the dynamics of power, territorial control, and community safety are continually contested. The implications of these actions extend beyond immediate violence, as they contribute to a cycle of fear and instability that affects both communities. The international community's response to such developments will be crucial in shaping future discourse on human rights and conflict resolution in the region.