Israeli Leaders Condemn Settler Violence in Palestinian Village

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, September 29, strongly condemned riots by a group of settlers in the Palestinian village of Jalud, near Nablus in the Samaria region. Netanyahu stated that the "handful of hooligans" do not represent the law-abiding settler population and hinder security forces. He called for the perpetrators to be punished "to the fullest extent of the law."

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, on a tour of Judea and Samaria, echoed Netanyahu's condemnation, calling the actions of the rioters "serious" and stating they "hinder the fight against terror." He emphasized that the perpetrators do not represent the settlers and must be held fully accountable.

Opposition party leaders also denounced the violence, with Yair Golan of the Democratic Party blaming the government for creating an "atmosphere of impunity" that encourages extremists. MK Gilad Kariv accused settlers of acting like "masters of the country" and inciting conflict, suggesting figures like Bezalel Smotrich were interested in igniting the territories. Benny Gantz of the National Unity party stated the rioters harm the State of Israel and the vast majority of settlers who oppose such actions.

The incident occurred when approximately 100 radical settlers attacked Jalud, setting fire to homes and property, including those of the Tabbasi family who were attempting to return after fleeing settler harassment. Israeli security forces attempting to facilitate their return were also attacked, resulting in three Border Police officers sustaining minor injuries. Three settlers, including two minors aged 15 and 17, were detained.

The IDF and police are investigating the incident, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. The military stressed that such events distract from their mission of protecting the population and undermine stability. Palestinian sources reported similar incidents in other villages, including arson and vandalism.

The Tabbasi family had previously reported being under siege in their homes for months due to settler harassment, forcing them to leave Jalud in late August.