IDF Military Closure and Its Impact on Settler Violence in Khirbet al-Marajim

In early April 2026, Thaabet Maslam was assaulted by Israeli settlers in Khirbet al-Marajim, a small hamlet in the West Bank. This incident occurred within a closed military zone established by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which prohibits entry to non-residents but allows settlers to access the area. The military zone was extended until April 2027, ostensibly to mitigate violence in the region, yet reports indicate that it has instead facilitated increased settler aggression against Palestinian residents.

Since the October 7, 2023, massacre, violence against the residents of Khirbet al-Marajim and neighboring communities has intensified. Settlers have reportedly engaged in assaults, property destruction, and livestock theft. Maslam recounted that his family has faced numerous attacks, including the burning of their home and equipment. Activists have also reported daily harassment, including the use of pepper spray by settlers. Following the imposition of the military closure, three families fled the area due to escalating violence, citing the absence of protective support from activists.

The enforcement of the closed military zone has raised concerns about a double standard. While Palestinian activists are barred from entering, settlers continue to operate freely. Activist Ofek Sivoni documented an incident where soldiers enforced the order against him but allowed a settler to remain in the area. The IDF later attributed this to a "human error" by the soldier involved. Critics argue that such enforcement practices effectively enable settler violence while leaving Palestinian communities vulnerable.

The situation in Khirbet al-Marajim reflects a troubling trend noted by various organizations, including the Israeli NGO B’Tselem, which reports the depopulation of nearly 60 small herding communities due to settler violence. Attorney Roni Pelli from the Yesh Din NGO highlighted similar enforcement issues in other areas, where military orders do not prevent settlers from accessing Palestinian-owned land. Rabbi Arik Ascherman of Torat Tzedek expressed concern over the lack of enforcement against settlers, indicating potential legal action to challenge the military order.

Residents and activists fear that the prolonged military closure will exacerbate tensions and violence. Yael Rozmarin, an activist, noted a significant increase in threats and violence, with residents feeling increasingly unsafe. Maslam articulated a broader sentiment of despair, stating that the systemic support for settlers by Israeli authorities contributes to their dispossession. He emphasized that the issue extends beyond individual settlers to encompass state policies that facilitate their actions.

• “The settlers came and destroyed everything in one of the abandoned homes,” — Raad Zuabra, Resident

• “It’s not like you can fight the settlers through the law — the army and the police do not enforce what is written in the law,” — Thaabet Maslam, Resident

• “In Khirbet al-Marajim, threats have risen sharply recently — with pepper spray and clubs. They aren’t used to this,” — Yael Rozmarin, Activist

• “The one who expels me is not just the settler, it’s the entire state that does not want me here,” — Thaabet Maslam, Resident

The ongoing situation in Khirbet al-Marajim underscores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly regarding the enforcement of military orders and the protection of vulnerable communities. As tensions continue to rise, the future of these communities remains uncertain.