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Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar Warns of Settler Violence, Global Delegitimization

Aug 25, 2024, 09:31 AM

The head of Israel's domestic intelligence agency, Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, has expressed grave concerns over the escalating violence by extremist Jewish settlers in the West Bank. In a letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Bar warned that the situation has become increasingly widespread and visible, contributing to Israel's global delegitimization. He noted that the attacks by settlers have led to retaliatory actions by Palestinians, further straining Israeli security forces. Bar's comments highlight a growing phenomenon of Jewish terrorism, particularly from the Hilltop Youth, with some settlers feeling emboldened to attack Palestinians, believing they have implicit support from Israeli police. "I’m writing you this letter in pain, great fear, as a Jew, as an Israeli, and as a member of a security force," Bar stated. The violence has resulted in Palestinians being driven from their homes, exacerbating tensions in the region.