JCRC Denounces Settler Violence in the West Bank

The following is a statement from Ron Halber, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington.

“We are increasingly alarmed by the intensifying violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank. While the vast majority of settlers do not participate in or support this violence, these attacks — and the Israeli government’s inadequate efforts to stop them — are costing Palestinian lives, destroying property, and forcing families from their homes. This violence is also significantly damaging Israel’s international standing and hurting prospects for long-term peace with the Palestinians. It must end now.

“For 78 years, Israel has thrived in a hostile region by resolutely defending itself against terrorist enemies while maintaining a commitment to the rule of law. These values are not, and cannot ever be, in conflict. But those who either commit or look away from extremist violence are failing on both counts. These attacks make Israel less safe and increase the risk of retaliation. They embolden those who already wish Israel harm and are an affront to the founding principles of a democratic Jewish state.

“In recent weeks, religious and other leaders in Israel and the Diaspora have increasingly condemned this violence. We welcome and share those sentiments, but condemnation is not enough. Israel has both the capacity and responsibility to stop this violence now by adopting a zero tolerance approach. Military leaders should receive unequivocal orders to prevent settlers from harming civilians and communities. The Israeli government should fully and transparently investigate any incidents and fully prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.

“We will never waver in our support for Israel’s right to take military action to defend the nation of the Jewish people. Israel’s security rests in large part on how well it upholds democratic principles — enshrined in its Declaration of Independence — and protects innocent civilians. Israel’s leaders must immediately put an end to settler violence in the West Bank.”