The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs issued a formal condemnation on 17 October 2026 following an assault on a European diplomatic delegation. Israeli settlers targeted the group in the town of Taybeh, located east of Ramallah. This incident, which involved the deliberate obstruction of international officials, has prompted a swift diplomatic response from the Jordanian government, which views the event as a significant escalation in the ongoing volatility affecting the area.
Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Fouad Majali issued a statement regarding the incident. He expressed "Jordan’s absolute rejection and condemnation of what he described as terrorist attacks by settlers, saying they reflect the policies of Israel’s far-right government." The ministry stated that the actions of the settlers represent a direct challenge to the safety of international representatives operating in the region. Officials in Amman continue to monitor the situation as the delegation assesses the impact of the confrontation. The ministry noted that such acts of violence against protected individuals undermine the integrity of diplomatic missions and the safety of those engaged in lawful activities within the territory.
Details of Diplomatic Incident
Belgian Consul General, French diplomats, and Polish diplomats comprised the diplomatic delegation targeted during the incident in Taybeh. The group had been visiting the area as part of an official observation mission when they encountered the group of settlers. The presence of these officials was intended to facilitate an objective review of the conditions in the West Bank, yet the mission was cut short by the sudden arrival and aggressive behavior of the settlers.
Palestinian farmers harvesting olives, representatives of the Catholic Church, and journalists also suffered attacks during the same encounter. The settlers reportedly confronted these individuals as they worked in fields near the town. These participants in the olive harvest were engaged in seasonal agricultural activities when the disruption occurred. The presence of journalists and church representatives suggests that the delegation was accompanied by observers who were documenting the harvest, which is a critical period for the local agricultural economy. The interference by the settlers resulted in damage to property and physical threats against the farmers and the accompanying observers.
Jordanian officials maintain that Israel bears full responsibility for the safety of all persons in these territories. Government representatives in Amman stated that Jordan holds Israel responsible for the attacks as the occupying power. This position reflects the view that the state occupying the West Bank must ensure the protection of civilians, international representatives, and property under its control. Ministry officials reiterated that the failure to prevent such violence constitutes a breach of obligations held by the occupying power. By failing to restrain the settlers, the government in Amman asserts that Israel has neglected its fundamental duty to maintain order and protect those who are legally present in the region. The Jordanian government remains in contact with the relevant international entities to evaluate the next steps following this breach of security.