Renowned Palestinian director Hamdan Ballal found himself in the center of a disturbing incident yesterday when he was attacked by Israeli settlers and subsequently arrested. The acclaimed filmmaker, known for his powerful cinematic works shedding light on the Palestinian struggle, was reportedly targeted while on his way to a film event in the West Bank.

Eyewitnesses claim that a group of extreme Israeli settlers verbally abused Ballal before physically assaulting him, leaving the director with minor injuries. The attackers allegedly cited Ballal's critical portrayal of the Israeli occupation as the reason for their violent outburst.

Israeli authorities were quick to respond to the incident, arresting Ballal and several of the settlers involved in the attack. The director's production team and supporters have condemned the violence and called for his immediate release. The arrest of Ballal has sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about the safety of artists and filmmakers in the region.

As the situation continues to unfold, the film community is rallying around Ballal, demanding justice and protection for artists who dare to speak truth to power.