Poll Reveals Deep Divisions on Settler Violence Among Israelis

A recent poll by the Jewish People Policy Institute has exposed starkly divided Israeli public opinion regarding the actions of Jewish settlers, particularly in light of recent unrest in Judea and Samaria. The survey found that one-third of Israelis labeled Jewish participants in recent riots as "Israeli terrorists," while nearly a fifth characterized their actions as "nationalist crimes." Only five percent of respondents expressed general support for such actions, with an additional thirteen percent showing leniency by describing the radicals as "young people who sometimes cross the line" or "the salt of the earth."

Political affiliation significantly influences these views. Among left-wing voters, 63% consider the rioters terrorists, a stark contrast to only 3% in the right-wing camp. Among Arab citizens, over half supported the "terrorist" label, compared to 27% of Jewish citizens.

The poll was prompted by a recent incident in the village of Kusra, where a group of Israelis allegedly attacked Palestinians and barricaded themselves in a home, leaving injured individuals without subsequent arrests. This behavior has intensified diplomatic pressure on Israel from key international allies, including the United States and Europe.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reportedly hesitated to take decisive action to avoid jeopardizing his coalition government, which includes right-wing parties. However, facing mounting international pressure, he has since ordered the dismantling of several illegal outposts. The comprehensive survey was conducted in early September among hundreds of Israeli citizens of various backgrounds.