US Ambassador Mike<bos> Hackaby Warns Israeli Actions Harm Image

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Hackaby has strongly condemned perpetrators of "hate crimes" in the West Bank, warning that their actions are damaging Israel's image among the American public. Hackaby reiterated his use of the term "terrorists" to describe those involved in these acts, emphasizing the significant harm they inflict on Israel's standing with the American people.

In an interview with Kan Reshet Bet, the ambassador stated, "It hurts the image of Israel as a nation and as a people. And I find it regrettable because right now Israel needs all the friends it can get, it doesn't need more enemies." This statement follows his remarks last month when he labeled as "Israeli terrorists" rioters who besieged residents of the Palestinian village of Qusra.

In response to Hackaby's comments, individuals involved in setting fire to a mosque in the village of Izra'a in Samaria recently spray-painted the message "Hackaby greetings from the terrorists." Hackaby addressed the graffiti directed at him, stating he is not personally afraid but clarified that the incident is serious and has significant implications for Israel's standing, even within the Republican Party in the United States.

The ambassador expressed concern that information about such incidents could negatively influence the views of young Americans if it is the only information they are exposed to.