Renewed Violence Against Hamdan Ballal's Family Amid Ongoing Settler Harassment

Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary *No Other Land*, has reported renewed violence against his family in the West Bank, specifically in Susya, following a history of harassment by Israeli settlers. On February 12, 2026, a group of settlers attacked Ballal's brother, Mohammed, who was hospitalized due to severe injuries sustained during the incident. This attack occurred shortly after an Israeli court ruled that the area around Ballal's home was closed to non-residents, a decision that has not been enforced effectively. Ballal stated that despite calling the police, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) arrived first and allegedly raided their home, further escalating the situation.

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*No Other Land* documents the struggles of Palestinian communities in Masafer Yatta, highlighting the violence and displacement caused by Israeli settlers with the support of the Israeli army. The film has been recognized for its portrayal of these issues, winning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in March 2025. However, Ballal expressed that the film's success has not improved conditions for his community, stating, "Our movie won an Oscar, but our lives are no better than before."

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The IDF confirmed the detentions of several family members but denied any allegations of assault during the raid. A spokesperson emphasized that the soldiers did not attack the Ballals. In contrast, Ballal and other witnesses have described a pattern of violence and intimidation that has intensified since the film's release. He noted that the recent court ruling intended to protect the family has instead led to increased harassment from settlers.

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Human rights organizations have condemned the ongoing violence and the Israeli government's actions in the West Bank. Critics argue that the government's recent measures, including a new land registry allowing Israelis to claim ownership of occupied territories, violate international law and exacerbate tensions in the region. Ballal highlighted that the situation has deteriorated, stating, "These laws, these decisions, are new for the media, but this is nothing new for us."

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While the IDF maintains that no assault occurred, eyewitness accounts from the Ballal family and local residents suggest otherwise. The discrepancy between official statements and personal testimonies raises concerns about the accountability of Israeli forces in the region. Additionally, the lack of enforcement of the court's ruling regarding non-resident access to the area remains a critical issue.

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As the situation in Masafer Yatta continues to evolve, Ballal hopes that the international attention garnered by *No Other Land* will eventually lead to a change in policy and improved conditions for Palestinians. He remains committed to raising awareness about the ongoing violence, urging viewers not to "turn away" from the realities faced by his community.

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“Today, Shem Tov Lusky—the settler who attacked me in my home shortly after I won the Oscar last year—came with his flock to my home.” — Hamdan Ballal, Co-director of *No Other Land*

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“Israel must immediately lift restrictions and allow food, medical supplies and fuel to reach those in desperate need, in line with international humanitarian law,” — UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Spokesperson

The Guardian

“The situation has become worse,” — Hamdan Ballal, Co-director of *No Other Land*

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“Denying us entry is an extension of the policy which has excluded international journalists, and kills Palestinian journalists.” — Graeme Groom, Orthopaedic Surgeon and Co-founder of Ideals

The Guardian