Netanyahu Vows “Strong Measures” Amid rising Settler Violence in West Bank
Jerusalem - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced today he will take “strong measures” to curb escalating violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank, following mounting international pressure and condemnation. The declaration comes as tensions remain high in the region, notably in the wake of discussions surrounding potential post-conflict governance in Gaza and the future of a Palestinian state.
the move signals a potential shift in response to settler attacks, which have considerably increased sence the start of the Israel-Hamas war. While details of the “strong measures” remain unspecified, Netanyahu’s statement aims to address concerns raised by allies, including the United States, and quell internal criticism from within his coalition government. This development occurs against a backdrop of ongoing efforts to secure a broader middle east peace plan, supported by nations including Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and turkey, which proposes “a path to Palestinian self-determination and statehood” – a concept firmly rejected by Netanyahu.
Netanyahu reiterated his long-standing opposition to a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, stating, “our opposition to a Palestinian state on any territory west of the (River) Jordan remains, is valid and has not changed one bit,” according to a statement from his office. “I have rejected such attempts for decades, and I do so against both external pressure and pressure from within. So I don’t need protestations, tweets or lectures from anyone.” Defence minister Israel Katz and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar have also affirmed that Israel will not concede to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The international community continues to push for a resolution to the conflict,with the G-7 nations calling for the rapid establishment of a UN Security Council-mandated peace plan for the Gaza Strip. This plan envisions, in a second phase, the disarmament of Hamas, stabilization through an international military force, and a transitional government comprised of Palestinian technocrats.
