42 Senate Democrats Press Netanyahu to Curb West Bank Violence
42 Senate Democrats urge Israel's PM to address settler violence, investigate American deaths, and stop settlement expansion.
A coalition of 42 Senate Democrats has formally urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address a recent surge in West Bank violence, including settler attacks and mass arrests of Palestinians. The letter, signed by a significant majority of the Democratic caucus, calls for clear directives to Israeli police and military to intervene in confrontations regardless of who is responsible.
The lawmakers specifically pressed for investigations into the deaths of nine American citizens killed by settlers or security forces in the West Bank since 2022. They also highlighted recent incidents, including a shooting last week that killed a 17-year-old and a 70-year-old, and reported attacks on mosques.
Beyond immediate security measures, the letter urges Israel to halt approvals for new settlements and illegal outposts, and to dismantle existing ones. This appeal reflects growing friction between congressional Democrats and the Israeli government, particularly over the conduct of the Gaza war and the broader humanitarian crisis.
The letter was drafted by Senators Adam Schiff, Chuck Schumer, and Cory Booker. It arrives as many Democrats advocate for curbs on U.S. military aid to Israel, citing the high Palestinian death toll and the stalled peace process. Rights groups have long documented instances of Israeli forces failing to respond to settler violence, while Israeli officials maintain they have condemned such attacks.