US Ambassador: Settler Attacks Harm Israel's Image Among Republicans

U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman reiterated his condemnation of extremist settlers in the West Bank, calling them "terrorists" and warning that their attacks against Palestinians are causing "serious damage" to Israel's image in the United States, particularly among Republicans. Friedman told Israel's Public Radio "Kan" on Friday that these settler attacks "harm Israel's image as a nation and as a people." He expressed regret, stating, "Israel needs all the friends it can get right now, and it doesn't need more enemies."

Friedman recently labeled settlers who attacked the Palestinian village of Qusra and established an outpost there as "Israeli terrorists." Following this, settlers attacked the village of Bizzariya in the Nablus Governorate, burning a mosque and spray-painting graffiti against Friedman on a wall that read, "Friedman, greetings from the terrorists."

In the interview, Friedman stated he was not personally afraid of the graffiti, but emphasized the seriousness of the situation. "The damage caused to Israel as a result is deep, and it is also among Republicans in the United States," he said. He expressed concern that young Americans hearing about these incidents might form negative perceptions of Israel, as this may be all they hear about the country.

Friedman also commented on the situation with Iran, stating it is difficult to predict their actions but that they are in a "very weak military position" and have "certainly weakened economically." He attributed this to the "military and economic operations of President Trump," which he believes have put Iran in a very difficult position, despite any outward appearances. Friedman denied that Trump was only focused on the Strait of Hormuz issue and neglecting the nuclear threat, asserting that the President has never indicated a willingness to ignore the "fundamental problem" of Iran's "47 and a half year threat to bring death to America."