March 27, 2026
American Jewish Committee (AJC) has consistently and unequivocally condemned violent attacks targeting both Israelis and Palestinians that have plagued the West Bank for far too long. These acts are intended to terrorize, destabilize communities, and foreclose the possibility of a more secure future for both peoples. They are morally indefensible and must be treated with equal seriousness.
AJC is particularly alarmed by the recent sharp rise in attacks carried out by violent Israeli extremists targeting Palestinian civilians and their property. Such violence left unchecked risks becoming normalized in the absence of consistent and visible opposition by authorities, undermines the rule of law, and ultimately weakens Israel’s long-term security.
Inflammatory statements from extremist Israeli political figures and activists that appear to justify or normalize such violence — including calls for the displacement of Palestinian populations and the framing of civilian confrontations as part of a broader war effort — are exacerbating this volatile environment. This rhetoric is dangerous, inconsistent with responsible leadership, and runs counter to the principles that underpin Israel’s democratic identity.
Accountability is essential. The Government of Israel must ensure that all individuals who engage in violence or incitement — regardless of identity — are held accountable under the law. AJC welcomes Ambassador Yechiel Leiter’s statement that the State of Israel will “take control” of the violence and treat it with “great seriousness.” We are also encouraged by recent statements from Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who has made clear that such violence is both ethically wrong and strategically damaging to Israel’s security. The allocation of government funding to support a dedicated IDF project manager to address the escalation in West Bank violence is also a constructive and important step.
At this sensitive and consequential moment, rejecting extremism and reaffirming a commitment to the rule of law is critical. The long-term security and well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians depend on preserving the possibility of a future grounded in safety, dignity, and coexistence.
