From ABC7 New York · · 1m
Washington Post journalist attacked in West Bank
Washington Post journalist beaten by Israeli settlers in West Bank olive harvest area.
In brief
Washington Post journalist beaten by Israeli settlers in West Bank olive harvest area. Washington Post journalist Heidi Levine was attacked by masked Israeli settlers during olive harvest in West Bank, prompting police investigation and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu calling for full investigation. Originally…
Attack on journalist
Washington Post journalist Heidi Levine was attacked by Israeli settlers while covering olive harvest in West Bank.
“Today, I was brutally attacked by ... I would say at least 50 masked men”
Witness accounts
Witnesses reported settlers charging from hill, beating journalist and setting fire to olive trees.
“In the videos posted online, settlers can be seen setting fire to the olive trees during the attack and then beating the journalist to the ground”
Journalist's account
Levine described being beaten 50 times, losing belongings and struggling to stand.
“And when they came running down, i was attacked pushed to the ground and luckily i had my flak jacket and my helmet”
Police investigation
Israeli police opened investigation with forensic teams and IDF forces collecting evidence.
“Upon receiving the report, officers from the juda and samaria district and forensic investigators were dispatched”
Washington Post response
Washington Post condemned attack and called for thorough investigation and follow-through.
“She was wearing visible markings clearly identifying her as a journalist”
Netanyahu's statement
Netanyahu called for full investigation but said facts remain unclear and questions remain.
“The facts surrounding the confrontation near abu falah remain unclear and are under investigation”
U.S. State Department
U.S. State Department expressed concern but stopped short of blaming any party.
“We are greatly concerned when any american is harmed overseas and stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance”
The short version
Washington Post journalist Heidi Levine was attacked by masked Israeli settlers during olive harvest in West Bank, prompting police investigation and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu calling for full investigation.
