Israel police say Jewish settlers have attacked American consular officials during a visit the officials made to the West Bank to investigate claims of damage to Palestinian agricultural property.
Police spokeswoman Luba Samri said the settlers today threw rocks at the officials who were forced to return to their vehicle.
She said that accompanying American security personnel did not use their weapons during the incident.
The American Consulate General in Jerusalem had no immediate comment.
Settlers have often spoken against what they call foreign interference in their affairs, but physical attacks against diplomatic personnel are extremely rare.
The United States is by far Israel's most important foreign ally, providing the country with some USD3 billion in annual aid and supporting its positions in international forums, despite frequent criticism.
