French mayor attacked by West Bank settlers sparks French call for Israeli arrests

What Happened

French mayor Bernard Baudoux was violently assaulted by masked Israeli settlers in the West Bank on October 17, 2026 while traveling with a convoy of European diplomats and Palestinian olive farmers.

Reaction

The 78‑year‑old mayor of Aulnoye‑Aymeries said settlers shouted defamatory remarks about France, kicked him and struck him with iron bars, then told AFP that the attack showed tolerance by the Israeli government. French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot posted on X that Israeli authorities must arrest those responsible, halt the criminal violence and guarantee civilian safety as required by international law. The assault followed a day‑earlier attack on an American photographer, indicating a rise in settler aggression ahead of contested elections. Other officials in the convoy included senior French and Belgian representatives in Jerusalem and Polish diplomats.

Context

Settler violence against diplomats and civilians in the occupied West Bank often strains Israel’s foreign ties and raises questions about the effectiveness of security measures under international obligations.