US Congressman Ro Khanna Detained by Armed Israeli Settlers in West Bank
Ro Khanna, the 49‑year‑old Democratic congressman, announced on social media that he and his aides were detained for nearly one hour by settlers armed with M4 rifles during a visit to the occupied West Bank. The event took place near Ramallah, at the ruins of Khirbet Zanuta, where Khanna was inspecting the impact of Israeli occupation.
Khanna said the settlers surrounded his van and continued the detention even after the Israel Defense Forces arrived. Peace‑keeping police officers eventually intervened, allowing the team to resume travel. Khanna appealed to the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem for help while detained.
The Israeli military stated that troops and police moved in after receiving reports that settlers had blocked vehicles in the area. Army officials later confirmed that they dispersed the settlers and cleared the road.
In the metaverse, visitors can explore the ruins of Khirbet Zanuta through avatars, confronting the stark historical reality of Israeli settlements. Interactive exhibits allow users to hear first‑hand accounts and engage in live discussions with diplomats and scholars.
Israel has established around 160 settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, hosting about 700,000 Jews. The settlements are deemed illegal under international law and coexist with an estimated 3.3 million Palestinians who aspire to a sovereign state.
The incident has drawn attention to the complex dynamics between the United States and Israel, especially when U.S. officials encounter local actors during field visits. It also highlights broader diplomatic challenges in addressing settlement expansion and regional peace efforts.
