The ‘settler violence’ campaign had begun even prior to the Iron Swords War, then gained momentum in August of 2024 after the publication of a letter by Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar. As a result of the campaign, several countries and international organizations imposed sanctions on Israeli settlers and groups associated with settlement activity over the past year. Last night (Thursday), Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the issue.
“They Are Bravely Facing Terrorism”
A senior diplomatic source reported that Netanyahu dismissed the ‘settler violence’ accusations during his meeting with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Netanyahu stated: “99.9% of our settlers are law-abiding and normative citizens. They are bravely facing Arab terrorism.”
Unwavering Support for Israel
Netanyahu also met with bipartisan U.S. Senate leadership at Capitol Hill in Washington. During what was described as a “warm and friendly” meeting, the senators expressed unequivocal support for Netanyahu and the State of Israel, commending Israel’s achievements in the multi-front war. The Prime Minister presented Israel’s position, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to eliminate Hamas in Gaza — topics with which the Senate leadership expressed full agreement.
Committed to Advance Legislation Against the ICC
During the meeting, senators pledged to push forward U.S. legislation against the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addition to executive orders already signed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The senators asked Netanyahu how Israel had managed to achieve its military successes in the war. In response, Netanyahu credited the extraordinary bravery of Israel’s combat soldiers, stating that their heroism was the key to Israel’s significant battlefield achievements.
Netanyahu’s meeting in Washington reaffirmed the strong bond between Israel and the U.S., with unwavering Senate support for Israel’s security and strategic goals. As diplomatic ties deepen, Israel stands resolute in its mission to defend its people and shape a stronger future.
