Israeli leaders have strongly denounced a violent settler rampage that took place in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, marking a rare instance of Israeli condemnation of settler violence. The incident occurred in the village of Jit, near Nablus, resulting in the death of one Palestinian and severe injuries to others, as reported by Palestinian health officials.
Witnesses stated that around a hundred masked settlers entered the village, engaging in destructive behavior such as shooting live ammunition, setting fires to homes and vehicles, and damaging water tankers. Disturbing video footage showed the village engulfed in flames, with residents left to fend for themselves for two hours before receiving military assistance.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed grave concern over the riots, emphasizing that those responsible for criminal acts would face prosecution. He underscored that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and security forces are tasked with combating terrorism, not civilians.
President Isaac Herzog and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also condemned the attack, with Gallant emphasizing that the settlers' actions did not align with the values of settler communities.
The incident in Jit prompted a significant rebuke from Israeli leaders, despite similar previous incidents receiving less attention. The international community, including the U.S., has condemned settler violence and the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Israeli officials made a clear distinction between the settler attack in Jit and the broader settlement project, which is viewed as illegal under international law. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich labeled the rioters as criminals, disassociating them from the legitimate settlement activities.
Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war, violence has escalated in the West Bank, resulting in numerous casualties. The U.N. documented over 1,000 settler attacks in the region during this period, highlighting a concerning increase in violence compared to previous years.
The Israeli military has taken action by arresting one Israeli civilian in connection with the Jit violence and initiating an investigation. However, rights groups have raised concerns about the low rate of arrests and prosecutions for settler violence in the region.
The tragic death of 23-year-old Rasheed Mahmoud abed Al Khadier Sadah has deeply impacted the community, with mourners preparing for his funeral. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges and tensions in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
