US Ambassador Hackbee Clarifies Use of 'Terrorists' for Jewish Rioters in West Bank

In a special interview with Channel 7, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Hackbee explained his use of the term "terrorists" to describe Jewish rioters involved in recent events in the West Bank village of Kusra. He justified the term by defining terrorism as acts intended to instill fear and change behavior through violence and intimidation, such as property arson and home invasions that threaten residents' safety. Hackbee emphasized that murder is not necessary for an act to be considered terrorism.

However, Hackbee strongly rejected labeling these incidents as "settler violence," arguing that the perpetrators do not represent the hundreds of thousands of Israelis living in Judea and Samaria. He estimated that only 300 to 500 individuals, many of whom do not reside in the West Bank but enter it to cause trouble, are involved. He described this small group as damaging Israel's and the Jewish people's reputation through criminal acts.

Regarding Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank, Hackbee stated that as ambassador, he cannot express personal opinions and must implement US policy. He indicated that the current US stance focuses on maintaining regional order and preventing escalation of conflict and violence rather than supporting unilateral sovereignty moves.

Hackbee also shared his personal connection to the region, noting that 80% of the Bible's events took place in Judea and Samaria, highlighting its historical and biblical significance to Israel.