What it is about

On Thursday night, a group of extremist Israeli settlers, many of whom were masked, carried out a violent rampage in the West Bank Palestinian village of Jit. The attack resulted in significant property damage and loss of life.

Why it matters

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the tension and volatility in the region. This rampage diverted attention and resources from the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) core mission of ensuring security and combating terrorism, highlighting the complexities of maintaining law and order in areas with competing national interests.

Security Response

Following the “grave incident,” the IDF promptly dispatched troops and border police officers to the scene. The IDF personnel utilized riot control measures and live fire to disperse the attackers, detaining one individual involved and handing him over to police custody. The Israeli military condemns such actions, stating they undermine security and law and order.

High-Level Condemnations

Prime Minister’s Office

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the rampage, viewing the extremist actions with severity. He reinforced that the responsibility of combating terrorism lies solely with the IDF and official security forces. His office assured that perpetrators would be prosecuted.

President’s Statement

President Isaac Herzog expressed strong condemnation of the riot, labeling it as harmful not only to the community and the settlement movement but also to Israel’s global reputation. emphasizing that these actions contravene the principles of Torah and Judaism. Herzog called for immediate law enforcement action against the culprits.

Defense Minister’s View

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant denounced the extremists, underscoring that their actions distract from the IDF’s crucial duties in defending the state. He fully backed the IDF, Shin Bet, and police in addressing the situation and taking severe measures to prevent such activities.

Finance Minister’s Stand

Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasized that such criminal actions are unrelated to the legitimate settlement movement, advocating for constructive development within legal frameworks. He strongly opposed any form of criminal anarchist violence.

Calls for Just and Sovereign Actions

Given the severe nature of the incident and its implications on both local and international levels, Israel’s senior officials united in condemning the attack while reassuring robust law enforcement and a continued focus on legitimate defense and security measures against terrorism in the region. The commitment is clear: Only the IDF and sanctioned security bodies are equipped to handle threats proficiently, ensuring safety and legal justice.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.