Israel News Today: Israel's US Envoy Leiter Condemns Settler Violence in Qusra as IDF Kills Hamas Commander

Israel's ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, condemned the settler siege of Palestinians in the West Bank village of Qusra, saying it "is not what it means to settle the land." The IDF said it killed a Hamas company commander in Khan Younis, and the election campaign saw departures from Likud's and Yesh Atid's benches.

Leiter Condemns Qusra Siege

"What we saw in the village of Qusra this week is not what it means to settle the land," Ambassador Yechiel Leiter said in a video statement condemning the settlers' siege of Palestinians there, The Times of Israel reported.

Hamas Commander Killed in Khan Younis

The IDF said a strike in Khan Younis killed Hudhaifa Khaled Suleiman Qawari, a commander in Hamas's Khan Younis Brigade who was advancing attacks against Israeli troops, The Times of Israel reported.

Tsega Melaku Won't Run in Likud Primaries

Likud MK Tsega Melaku announced she will not run in the party's primaries, following similar decisions by Eliyahu Revivo and Moshe Passal, The Times of Israel reported.

Eisenkot Praises Stern After Yesh Atid Exit

Yashar chief Gadi Eisenkot praised MK Elazar Stern after he announced he is leaving Yesh Atid, saying he hopes Stern will "continue in public service," fuelling speculation of a party switch, The Times of Israel reported.

Sources

• The Times of Israel — While Netanyahu mum, Leiter condemns settler violence in Qusra
• The Times of Israel — IDF says it killed Hamas commander planning attacks on troops
• The Times of Israel — Likud backbencher Tsega Melaku won't run in primaries
• The Times of Israel — Eisenkot praises Stern after Yesh Atid departure