Congressman Ro Khanna Detained by Israeli Settlers in West Bank
Congressman Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California, reported that he was detained by armed Israeli settlers during his visit to the West Bank this week. He cautioned that the Israeli military “made a big mistake” in their handling of the situation.
Khanna, known for his critical stance on Israel and speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run, disclosed to Reuters that while his group was sightseeing in southern West Bank, their van became surrounded by settlers armed with rifles.
In a post on X, he stated, “Israeli settlers brandished American-made M4s and detained me and other Americans during our trip to Palestine.” He noted that when the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) arrived, they sided with the settlers, extending the detention. Khanna promised that more details would follow, although he didn’t elaborate further.
According to one of his aides, the group was held for over an hour and had to reach out to the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem for assistance prior to their release.
The Israeli military responded to inquiries from Reuters stating they had received reports of settlers obstructing traffic near the Palestinian settlement of Khirbet Zanuta. They indicated that upon arrival, the military dispersed the civilians and allowed traffic to resume.
Khanna has openly criticized Israel, co-sponsoring a resolution that characterizes Israeli military actions in Gaza as “genocide.” He claimed that this position contributed to the Democratic Party’s losses in the 2024 elections, describing support for Israel as a “blank check” for actions in Gaza.
While Khanna asserts his belief in “Israel’s right to exist,” he distinguishes that this does not endorse expansionist policies for a Greater Israel, advocating instead for a two-state solution.
His recent trip aligns with a broader trend within progressive politics in California, where support for Palestinian rights has become increasingly significant. This sentiment has been exemplified in recent events involving Bay Area candidates facing pressure from pro-Palestinian activists.
