West Bank: Settler Violence Surge Amid Silent War

Since October 7, 2023, with the Israel-Hamas war ongoing, violence between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank has escalated. United Nations estimates indicate approximately 2,000 settler attacks against Palestinians.

The attacks include harassment of farmers and vandalism. Over 1,500 Palestinians have been displaced, and armed violence is increasing. More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023.

Arie Perliger argues that the violence is fueled by ideological zeal and political opportunism of far-right Israelis.

Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967. Jewish settlements are considered illegal under international law but continue to expand.

Religious Zionists view the creation of Israel as divine redemption. Extremist settler groups seek Jewish control by creating difficult conditions for Palestinians.

The Hamas attack on October 7 reinforced the belief that a Palestinian state would be an existential threat. Settler violence faces less criticism, and the government does not restrain it. The military relies on settler militias.

Only 3% of settler attacks lead to convictions.

The violence is part of a strategy to consolidate Jewish control. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich approved 22 new settlements.