Allies of Israel have condemned a sharp rise in attacks by armed Jewish settlers on Palestinian civilians in the West Bank.

Religious jews in illegal settlements on territory that is occupied by Israel claim the land was given to them by God.

The war in Gaza has led to an intensification of violence in the West Bank, with the heavily-armed settlers attacking Palestinian communities.

Palestinians say the settlers have been armed by Israel and are protected by Israeli soldiers. The settlers leaders claim they are protecting themselves.

Reeta Chakrabarti presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Jeremy Bowen.

Subscribe here: http://bit.ly/1rbfUog

For more news, analysis and features visit: www.bbc.com/news

#BBCNews