European diplomats say they were attacked by Israeli settlers in the West Bank; Israel urges caution before drawing conclusions

Updated on: October 17, 2026 / 3:50 PM EDT / CBS News

A police investigation is underway after European diplomats said they were assaulted by Israeli settlers while visiting the occupied West Bank on Saturday, authorities said. Meanwhile, the prime minister's office urged caution before "drawing conclusions," and the reports come "amid concerns about a coordinated campaign to smear Israel."

Israeli police said they launched the investigation following footage circulating online, which appears to show several diplomats being attacked near the village of Taybeh. The statement said efforts were underway to locate the victims and identify the suspects "with the aim of bringing them to justice."

"The Israel Police condemns violence of any kind and will pursue these investigations to their full extent, ensuring that everyone involved in such incidents is brought to justice," the statement said.

Israel's military condemned the "severe act of violence" during which diplomatic representatives were "attacked by Israeli rioters." It said the diplomats' visit had not been coordinated with them and that no soldiers were at the scene.

Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported that the diplomats included representatives from France, Belgium and Poland.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office condemned the reports of the attacks on…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/