US Ambassador Denounces Settler Violence as 'Terrorism' During Palestinian Village Visit

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew visited the Palestinian village of Turmus Ayya in the West Bank on Saturday amid heightened regional security tensions. During his visit, Lew met with village residents, many of whom hold American citizenship, and with relatives of Americans killed by settlers. The visit occurred against a backdrop of escalating security incidents in the West Bank, including several severe acts of violence that have drawn international condemnation.

Ambassador Lew strongly condemned the actions of those involved, labeling them "terrorists" and stating, "I do not support those who take over the property of others." He described the perpetrators as "lunatics who invade homes" and take over property that does not belong to them, calling it an act of terror. Lew emphasized that while the embassy cannot investigate these events directly, they can draw attention to issues requiring correction.

"Terror is a situation where a person is forced to change their behavior because of the behavior of another person who tries to use intimidation to make them afraid to live in their home, to make their children afraid to play in their yard, and to allow them to walk in their streets," Lew explained, defending his use of the term.

Addressing the Palestinian residents, Lew affirmed their right to live in peace and enjoy their homes. He stated that anything threatening their sense of security and safety within their homes constitutes terrorism. Lew stressed that while the U.S. cannot set policy on the ground, they can communicate to the host government the need to address unresolved issues and ensure that specific crimes and acts of terror are not ignored, with appropriate investigations and legal proceedings.

Lew expressed personal sorrow for the children affected by the violence and shared stories of children questioning why they are not respected or loved. He revealed that he holds daily conversations not only with the Israeli government but also with many Israelis, stating that the majority of the half-million Israelis living in the West Bank are disgusted by the behavior of these "terrorist groups." He concluded by reiterating that the U.S. can express its desires and exert pressure to resolve these problems, emphasizing that "crime is crime, an act of terror is an act of terror. Those who commit it must expect serious consequences."