RAMALLAH, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Alexandre Stutzmann, the European Union Representative to West Bank and Gaza Strip, on Thursday announced the launch of an aid program to support victims of settler attacks in the West Bank, according to Palestine's official news agency WAFA.

Stutzmann described the rise in settler violence as a "wake-up call," noting that while such incidents have not been prevented, efforts can be made to ensure they do not recur.

He added that the EU is studying firm political measures alongside other actions, including the implementation of the new aid initiative.

On Wednesday, Stutzmann, accompanied by members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Palestinian Authority, visited the village of al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, to assess damage caused by recent settler attacks.

Violence has escalated in the West Bank amid ongoing tensions, with frequent incidents targeting Palestinian civilians and property.

Since the beginning of 2026, 16 Palestinians have been killed in settler attacks, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

Data from the Palestine Liberation Organization's Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission showed that 1,819 attacks were recorded in March, including 1,322 by Israeli forces and 497 by settlers.

Palestinian officials have accused Israeli forces of protecting settlers, a claim Israel disputes.

More than 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel occupied the West Bank in 1967 and established settlements there, which the international community widely regarded as illegal under international law, a position Israel rejects. ■