In recent days, violence by settler militias, enabled and supported by the Israeli army, has escalated across the West Bank, including the torching and destruction of Palestinian property, and the forced expulsion of families and communities. These attacks have been met with silence and inaction from much of the international community, allowing the violence to continue and intensify.
Today’s event in the village of Tell (Area B) when a settlers “tour” in the village ended with the killing of at least 4 Palestinians and 1 settler and several people injured is leading to escalated violence in the area with settlers, ministers, and Knesset members calling for further revenge attacks which already started across the West Bank. Experience shows that these events can escalate quickly into mass pogroms when met with silence.
We call the international community to act now. Immediate pressure must be placed on GOI to stop further attacks, prevent pogroms and further killings, and ensure the protection of Palestinians, in accordance with Israel’s obligations under international law.
Adalah; Akevot; Bimkom; Breaking the Silence; B’Tselem; Emek Shaveh; Gisha; HaMoked; Haqel; Human Rights Defenders Fund; Ir Amim; MachsomWatch; Parents Against Child Detention; Peace Now; Physicians for Human Rights Israel; Yesh Din; Zazim
