Netanyahu, Herzog Condemn Violent Settler Attacks in West Bank

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog have strongly condemned violent disturbances that occurred overnight in the West Bank, involving what officials described as around 100 rioters attacking the Palestinian village of Jalud. The incidents included the burning of a home belonging to a family that had been expelled and attempted to return, as well as assaults on Israeli soldiers and border police. President Herzog called the violence a "most serious act" that must be dealt with "with the full severity of the law," labeling it a "moral stain" and a blow to the rule of law and fundamental values. He emphasized that such actions, especially during the Sukkot holiday, contradict Jewish values and expressed support for the security forces, wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

Prime Minister Netanyahu echoed the condemnation, stating, "I strongly condemn the violent riots tonight in Samaria and the harm to the security forces." He stressed that the "group of rioters does not represent the law-abiding settler public in Judea and Samaria," asserting that they cause "immense injustice" and hinder security forces. Netanyahu also pledged support for soldiers and border police and called for law enforcement to prosecute the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.

Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi described the events, which included property arson and the injury of border police officers, as "serious and abhorrent." He confirmed that an investigation had begun and expressed confidence in the investigators to conduct a thorough inquiry to bring the rioters to justice. Ashkenazi further stated that those committing these criminal acts are "criminals who must be dealt with with the full severity of the law," arguing they harm Israeli values, Jewish settlement, and Israel itself.