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Beersheba, Israel – July 3, 2025 — An Israeli settler and his father, who serves in the military, were indicted Thursday on charges of aggravated assault and unlawful entry after violently confronting Palestinian residents in the West Bank, the State Prosecutor’s Office announced.
According to the indictment filed in the Beersheba District Court, 25-year-old Shem Tov Luski entered the yard of a Palestinian home with several associates in what prosecutors described as a premeditated act of aggression.
The group confronted the residents after Luski allegedly suspected them of starting a fire in a nearby forest, though no evidence supporting this claim has been made public.
The confrontation quickly escalated. Prosecutors say that one Palestinian resident was punched, prompting others to throw stones in an attempt to repel the intruders. At this point, Shem Tov’s father, Gad Luski—a soldier on patrol in the area—arrived armed with his personal firearm.
According to the indictment, instead of de-escalating the situation, Gad Luski pointed his weapon at the Palestinian residents and pushed them away from his son. Meanwhile, Shem Tov grabbed one of the Palestinians, slammed him to the ground, and proceeded to beat him with punches and kicks.
Gad Luski is not believed to have fired his weapon during the incident, but his actions in pointing it at civilians have drawn sharp criticism. Both father and son were arrested following the incident and remain in custody.
The State Prosecutor has charged both men with aggravated assault and trespassing with intent to commit a crime. Additionally, Shem Tov Luski faces a separate count of simple assault for his role in the attack.
This indictment comes amid rising tensions and increasing reports of settler violence across the West Bank, particularly in the wake of recent forest fires and suspected acts of retaliation.
Human rights groups have called for a broader investigation into settler violence and the Israeli military’s involvement or inaction in such cases. The case is likely to intensify scrutiny over the military’s handling of soldiers involved in civilian confrontations, particularly those involving family members.
No trial date has been set yet, but both defendants are expected to appear in court for a preliminary hearing later this month.