SALFIT, February 9, 2026 (WAFA) – Israeli colonists on Monday intercepted a diplomatic delegation during a field tour at Wadi al-Matwi in the occupied West Bank city of Salfit.

Colonists obstructed a delegation that included the Buachidze Gocha, Representative of the Russian Federation to Palestine, and Salfit Governor, Mustafa Taqatqa, on a tour to the area, intercepting the Russian diplomat’s vehicle and that of Salfit Governor and threatening the delegation should the latter proceed with the tour.

The tour was intended to gain an experience of Israeli colonist attacks and closely monitor the conditions of Palestinian farmers.

Salfit Governor Taqatqa denounced the interception of the delegation as an act of terrorism committed by colonists, who are emboldened by the Israeli government, and called for international action to protect both civilians and official delegations in the occupied territory.

The Russian Representative Gocha voiced his grave concern over the incident and stressed the need to respect international laws and ensure the protection of official delegations and Palestinian civilians against any attacks.

K.F.