The key facts

  • Germany condemned the attack on European diplomats and a photographer in the West Bank
  • The incident occurred near the town of Taybeh east of Ramallah during an EU delegation visit
  • The Belgian consulate's car had a window smashed; Berlin demands an investigation

Berlin Condemns Attack on Diplomats

Germany's Foreign Ministry on Monday condemned attacks on European diplomats and a photographer from an American media outlet in the occupied West Bank, demanding an investigation. Ministry spokesperson Kathrin Deschauer said at a briefing in Berlin that attacks on diplomats — as well as on the journalist — should be condemned as a matter of principle, and called the reports of the incident 'alarming.' She added that Germany joins the demands of European countries for an investigation and expressed solidarity with the affected diplomats.

Circumstances of the Incident

The incident occurred over the weekend near the town of Taybeh east of Ramallah, where an EU delegation was on a visit during the olive harvest season. The delegation included the consuls of France and Belgium, a representative of Poland, and representatives of the Catholic Church. According to reports, masked individuals described as Israeli settlers confronted members of the delegation; a window of the Belgian consulate's car was smashed.

Context of the Olive Harvest Season

According to the agency, attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians and their property have increased during the current olive harvest season, which began at the start of the month.