Tensions Escalate: Filmmaker Beaten, Detained in West Bank

Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land', in the West Bank. He was detained by the Israeli military along with two others. The film sheds light on Palestinians resisting military demolition orders, sparking international controversy and local hostility.

In a tense altercation on Monday, Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal, notably the co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land', in the West Bank. Eyewitnesses, including co-director Basel Adra, reported the assault occurred before Ballal was detained by the Israeli military.

The incident unfolded in the village of Susiya, home to Ballal and Adra. Attorney Lea Tsemel, representing the detained Palestinians, confirmed their arrest but expressed frustration at being unable to contact them. Adra recounted aggressive behavior by settlers, some armed and masked, which escalated tensions in the village.

Ballal's arrest comes amid controversy surrounding the documentary, which highlights the plight of Palestinians in the Masafer Yatta area resisting Israeli military demolition orders. The film has faced domestic and international backlash, yet continues to draw attention to the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)