Netanyahu Condemns Settler Violence in West Bank in Unprecedented Rebuke
RAMALLAH, West Bank – November 17, 2023 – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a rare public condemnation of violence perpetrated by settlers in the West Bank today, November 17, 2023, amid mounting international pressure and a surge in attacks against Palestinians. The statement from Netanyahu, delivered following criticism of the Israeli military’s response, marks the first time he has directly criticized settler violence while in office.
The condemnation arrives as tensions remain exceptionally high following the October 7, 2023, hamas-led attacks on Israel and the subsequent military operation in the Gaza Strip. The escalating violence in the West Bank threatens to further destabilize the region, potentially igniting a wider conflict and complicating efforts to achieve a lasting peace. More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7th, according to United Nations data, alongside 59 Israelis.
According to recent data from the UN human rights office, October saw over 260 attacks by settlers – the highest number recorded in a single month as 2006. These attacks have drawn condemnation from international bodies and raised concerns about a lack of accountability for perpetrators. Chief of General Staff Ejal Zamir has also condemned the attacks, while the army faces repeated accusations of failing to take decisive action against the assailants.
The surge in violence has coincided with a broader escalation of the Israeli-palestinian conflict. The UN reports that settler attacks and Israeli army operations in the West Bank and East Jerusalem have contributed to the rising Palestinian death toll. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing concerns about further escalation and the potential for broader regional repercussions.
